The chrysanthemum fields in Van Lam District, Hung Yen Province, not only offer vibrant beauty but also serve as a significant source of income for many local households. This flower is closely associated with the traditional herbal farming industry that has existed for hundreds of years.
Cultivating Chrysanthemums – A Unique Agricultural Cultural Heritage
Since the 1980s, residents of Nghia Trai Village (Tan Quang Commune) have been cultivating medicinal plants, including chrysanthemums. Currently, most of the cultivation takes place in Luong Tai Commune, covering approximately 20 hectares. The chrysanthemum crop is planted once a year, starting in June and harvested in mid-November of the lunar calendar.
To ensure productivity and quality, farmers must pay special attention to the early growth stage when plants are susceptible to pests and diseases. Biological control methods are prioritized to ensure plant safety.
Harvesting and Processing Chrysanthemums
During the harvest season, each laborer can collect about 23 kg of fresh flowers per day. After harvesting, the flowers are processed using two main methods:
- Drying over wood charcoal: Produces the highest quality with a selling price of around 500,000 VND/kg
- Drying with quicklime: Cheaper, priced at about 200,000 VND/kg
- Selling fresh flowers: Ranges from 35,000 to 45,000 VND/kg
To increase harvest efficiency, many households hire additional seasonal workers. Some fields also use flooded irrigation techniques to help the flowers bloom evenly and more beautifully.
Uses and Health Benefits of Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums are highly valued for their medicinal properties, offering several benefits:
- Bitter taste with a hint of sweetness and a mild, soothing fragrance
- Cooling and detoxifying effects on the body
- Support for treating symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and insomnia
- Widely used in tea brewing and herbal medicine preparation
Preserving and Developing the Chrysanthemum Cultivation Industry
Maintaining and developing the chrysanthemum cultivation industry not only preserves agricultural cultural heritage but also provides high economic value to local people. For sustainable development, support from local authorities is necessary in areas such as:
- Improving cultivation techniques
- Ensuring stable market outlets
- Building product brands
- Developing eco-tourism
The chrysanthemum fields in Hung Yen are not only a valuable resource for the herbal industry but also an attractive destination for nature lovers and those interested in exploring traditional Vietnamese agriculture.
Source: Dan Tri Newspaper
