COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE SOIL OF THE COLLECTION SITE OF MEDICINAL PLANTS, THE NATURAL POPULATION OF THE LONG-HAIRED ZHU (ALLIUM LONGICUSPIS), AND THE FEATURES OF THE SOIL AND FLORA OF THE SHU-ILI MOUNTAINS

Abstract

This article presents a comparative analysis of soil conditions in a collection plot of medicinal plants and in areas where the natural population of Allium longicuspis is distributed. The objects of the study included cultivated soils of the Main Botanical Garden and natural soils of the Chu-Ili Mountains. The analysis identified the mechanical composition, moisture content, soil fertility, and floristic characteristics. It was found that plants in natural environments demonstrate higher ecological stability, whereas under cultivated conditions they show higher productivity. These differences indicate the influence of soil and climatic factors on plant development. The obtained results can serve as a scientific basis for improving methods of cultivation, conservation, and protection of medicinal plants. The role of microelements in soil composition was also examined, and differences in morphological traits of plants were identified. A high genetic stability of natural populations was observed. It was proven that agrotechnical practices contribute to accelerated plant growth. The results are important for effective ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation. The need to assess the impact of climate change, especially under drought conditions, was emphasized. Measures to prevent soil degradation were also considered.