Located at the western end of the Hexi Corridor, Jiuquan in Gansu province faces significant challenges due to its arid climate, water scarcity, and severe sandstorms, making spring afforestation particularly difficult. In recent years, the city has developed a new approach, which has significantly strengthened local ecosystems and improved vegetation coverage.

Jiuquan's strategy is tailored to its dry, windy conditions, moving away from extensive afforestation methods. The city focuses on site-specific tree planting, water-efficient practices, and scientific planning to improve the quality of spring afforestation.

The city has strategically planned its spring planting based on ecological zoning. This includes creating windbreaks on oasis peripheries, protective belts at edges, improving networks within oases, and beautifying urban and rural areas.

Since 2021, Jiuquan has completed over 92,033 hectares of afforestation, with plans to green over 91,333 hectares this year, including artificial forests, degraded forest restoration, and grassland rehabilitation.

Jiuquan prioritizes local drought-resistant trees like populus and tamarisk, reducing maintenance costs while enhancing survival rates. It integrates water-saving practices throughout the planting process, using drip and pipe irrigation instead of traditional flooding techniques.

Moreover, the city has fostered community involvement and engaged in public welfare afforestation projects. Since 2019, such projects have added over 23,506 hectares of forests, effectively combating desertification and promoting sustainable development.