Shandong's county enjoys bumper sugarcane harvest

Growers have got into high gear with the arrival of October and sugarcane harvest time in Chengwu county in Heze city, in East China's Shandong province.

One of the growers, Guo Shunming, recently put on a burst of speed to bring in the harvest at his sugarcane fields one early morning, skillfully cutting the sugarcane and stripping the leaves. Thanks to the favorable weather and ample sunlight, he's had an abundance of high-quality sugarcane this year.

Sugarcane is a tropical cash crop known for its high requirements in terms of heat and water. But Guo has invested a considerable effort into finetuning its cultivation in the north of the country.

Through continuous experimentation and refinements, he's managed to grow sugarcane that is exceptionally sweet, crispy and juicy. As a result, his sugarcane has been a hit not only in the local region but particularly  in nearby villages and towns, drawing in hordes of visitors to have a taste of his produce this season.

In recent years, Chengwu county has emerged as a shining example of rural vitalization through strategic industrial development. By adapting to local conditions and optimizing its crop structure, the county has guided farmers towards cultivating specialty crops, increasing their added value.

This innovative approach – often referred to as "growing southern fruit in the north" – has not only challenged traditional perceptions, but has also injected new momentum into the development of rural vitalization. (Edited by Zhou Yunlai)