Farmers across China are stepping up their efforts to protect their crops as a severe cold wave sweeps the nation. The National Meteorological Center issued yellow alerts for snowstorms and cold waves this week, prompting agricultural communities to get creative in safeguarding their livelihoods.
In Jiangsu Province, pitaya (dragon fruit) farmers are employing innovative solutions to shield their tropical crops from the chill. With temperatures dipping to just 3-4 degrees Celsius, greenhouse owners have installed thermal quilts and set up diesel heaters to maintain warmth. They’re also using smartphones to monitor temperature and humidity, ensuring the pitaya trees stay within their ideal growing conditions of 5-35 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, in Shandong Province, agricultural experts are providing hands-on support to local farmers. They advise lowering protective coverings when temperatures near zero and using supplemental lighting on dark, rainy days. This guidance is crucial for areas like Lanling County, which produces over 5 million tonnes of vegetables each year.
In Hunan Province, farmers are proactively planting cold-resistant vegetables such as Chinese flowering cabbage and kale. They’re also using ground films to retain warmth, control moisture, and reduce weed growth, helping their crops survive the cold snap.
By Wednesday morning, the China Meteorological Administration lifted the cold wave and snow warnings, signaling an end to the severe weather. However, the inventive measures taken by farmers during this period highlight their resilience and adaptability in the face of climate challenges.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
