The present invention discloses a method for improving the survival rate of Qilian round cypress afforestation in arid areas. Step 1, horizontal ditch catchment preparation, Step 2, collection of surface runoff: (1) catchment slope; (2) laying of catchment materials, choose plastic film or linoleum on the slope; Step 3, seedling planting; Step 4, tree tray mulching: (1) determine the mulching specifications; (2) mulching in the 0.8-1.0 m range around the rootstock of the planted seedlings; after loosening and weeding the tree tray, mulching in the tree tray, the tree tray mulching into a concave shape;. Step 5. Nurture management. The invention uses a method for improving the survival rate of Qilian round cypress afforestation in arid areas, improving the survival rate of Qilian round cypress afforestation in arid shallow mountainous areas, expanding the scale of Qilian round cypress plantation population, providing a technical guarantee for the widespread application of Qilian round cypress afforestation and landscaping in arid areas, improving the ecological environment, and enhancing regional water conservation and soil conservation capacity.