Yizhou's 'golden fruits' sweeten rural prosperity

As autumn lends a golden hue to Zhucang village in Desheng town, Yizhou district, the early-ripening mandarin oranges – popularly known as "shatangju" are hitting the market – two months earlier than usual, turning into a sought-after product that enhances local incomes.

Farmers sort, weigh, and pack with joy. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

The planting base shows a lively scene: golden fruits hang from connected trees like clusters of small lanterns. Farmers walk through the "orange sea", picking, sorting, weighing, and packing, their faces full of joy as citrus scent stays on their fingers.

"The fruits are perfect this year, with uniform size and great sweetness. Early listing means no worry about sales!" said farmer Liu Mu'ai while sorting the oranges.

The variety's early-ripening advantage allows it to avoid peak-season competition, helping it stand out in the market.

Scientific planting and management are crucial for success. The 200-mu (13.33 hectares) base consistently produces 600 metric tons annually due to professional cultivation practices. "Early ripening captures market opportunities and commands higher prices," said base leader Qin Mu'en.

Joy lights up the farmer's faces. [Photo/Hechi Daily]

Each jin (0.5 kilograms) of these off-peak oranges sells for 1 to 2 yuan ($0.14 to 0.27) more than ordinary ones.

The base generates over three million yuan annually, creating jobs for 60+ nearby villagers who see an average annual income increase of over 30,000 yuan.

Known as "Desheng Autumn Shatangju", the fruit has become a signature of local agriculture.

Desheng town plans to optimize varieties and expand planting, letting this "sweet fruit" drive more farmers' prosperity and add momentum to rural vitalization.

Plump, golden "shatangju" mandarins. [Photo/Hechi Daily]