Amidst the beautiful autumn scenery, Hawthorn fruits are ripe for the picking in the picturesque village of Hantai, located in the Daxin Township of Bengbu City, Anhui Province. The local hawthorn orchard has come alive with clusters of bright red fruits adorning the branches.
In recent days, Zhao Qing, the manager of the hawthorn orchard, has been bustling about, making the most of the sunny weather to coordinate a team of workers for harvesting, sorting, packing, and transporting the fruits. The atmosphere is filled with activity and excitement.
“This year’s hawthorns have thrived under our careful management,” Zhao explains. “They are vibrant and delicious, which our customers love. Thanks to the plentiful rain this year, our yield is exceptionally high — an increase of about 300 to 400 pounds per acre compared to previous years. The prices are also great, about 30 cents more per pound than last year. I’m truly happy; it’s another successful harvest.”
Hawthorn trees are well adapted to the environment, easy to manage, and resistant to pests and diseases. Their versatility allows them to be consumed fresh or used in medicine, making them excellent raw materials for popular products like candied hawthorn.
The demand for hawthorn in the market is robust, and its cultivation provides numerous job opportunities, securing local incomes. Since the orchard’s fruits have come into full maturity, it has attracted many local residents looking for work, effectively supporting farmer incomes.
Rural revitalization relies on industry, and industrial growth hinges on unique features. In 2018, Hantai Village made significant efforts to optimize its agricultural structure, designating hawthorn as a key industry to bolster rural revitalization. Continuous exploration has led to improved fruit quality, paving the way for sales in regions like Guangdong and Zhejiang. This development not only offers villagers substantial income but also injects new vitality into the collective economy of Hantai Village.
In recent years, Daxin Township has leveraged its local resources and geographic advantages, focusing on developing specialty industries. With the goal of “one village, one industry, and benefits for every village,” the township has strategically planned, attracted high-quality investments, and effectively advanced initiatives. By promoting the development of unique agricultural products, Daxin has carved out a new path for high-quality development and sustainable revitalization.
