Radish becomes profitable in Nanhua

During the winter and spring time of dry climate, a special fruit called Nanhua radish stands out in Nanhua county of Chuxiong Yi autonomous prefecture in central Yunnan province, becoming a favorite among locals and visitors.

Thanks to the low latitude, high altitude, fertile soil, cool climate, long frost period and good air quality in Nanhua, the radishes here are large, excellent in quality, and rich in sugar.

More than two decades ago, the radishes here had low yield, small size, and particularly spicy taste, only suitable for cooking. The annual output value was even only a few hundred thousand yuan.

In 2023, Nanhua selected and cultivated superior radish varieties through trial planting of 111 radish varieties, enhancing the overall competitiveness of the radish industry in the county.

The development and growth of the industry have brought tangible benefits to the local people. "I used to work outside for a few years and couldn't earn much money in a year. Since 2010, I have returned to the village to grow radishes with my parents," said Luo Ronghua, a radish grower with a smile.

“Last year, our family planted 13 mu, with an annual net income of over 50,000 yuan. This year, we have added another 2 mu,” added him. The radishes grown by his family can yield up to 3000 kilograms per mu (about 0.0668 ha), and the income is increasing year by year.

Today, Nanhua radish has developed into a pillar industry of plateau agriculture with a planting area of over 80,000 mu (about 5333.33 ha) and a output value of nearly 500 million yuan. Especially in Wujie and Tianshentang areas, more than 5,000 households and over 30,000 people have enjoyed great changes in their lives because of the development of the industry.

Source: CNR; trans-editing by Wang Yunya