Vegetable planting boosts village development

Leafy greens planted in Jiuzhuang town. [Photo/WeChat account of Xifeng county]

In recent years, Jiuzhuang town in Xifeng county's vegetable industry has been boosting villagers' incomes by promoting the "village collective + farmers" industrial development model.

The town's Qingping village has used idle winter fields to plant over 1,000 mu (66.67 hectares) of leafy greens. These greens, which have increased collective income and provided job opportunities for villagers, are expected to yield 3,000 metric tons, with an estimated output value of about 1.8 million yuan ($246,420). The village has adopted an order-based planting model, effectively ensuring market demand for the produce.

"I came to the field early with everyone to harvest the greens, earning 120 yuan a day. It helps support my family while allowing me to take care of things at home," said Chen Xianying, a villager.

Leafy green cultivation offers advantages such as short growth cycles and easy management, allowing crops to be harvested in just three months. After harvesting, the land can be used for growing potatoes, radishes, and chili peppers, maximizing land efficiency and turning "idle winter fields" into "fields of prosperity".

To ensure the quality and quantity of vegetables, the town mobilizes technicians to villages, providing farmers with guidance on planting techniques, pest and disease control, and other essential knowledge to help them improve their cultivation skills and scientific management.