Xiuwen turns to understory planting for agricultural growth

In recent years, Xiuwen county in Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province, has gradually expanded its forestry industry chain through the development of understory planting.

Relying on its unique forest resources and local weather conditions, Guizhou Hongjin Edible Fungus Cultivation and Planting Co planted 300 mu (20 hectares) of edible fungi under the forest canopy in the village of Damu, Xiuwen.

Villagers in Damu plant edible fungi under the forest canopy at Guizhou Hongjin Edible Fungus Cultivation and Planting Co. [Photo/Guiyang Daily]

This has not only increased the efficiency of idle forest land, but also helped to increase local incomes.

"Later, we will expand the planting area to 1,000 mu and attract more villagers to participate in the development of planting," said Li Jie, the manager of the company.

Xiuwen has formulated a five-year action plan for advancing the high-quality development of its agricultural sector, and has set aside 1.5 million yuan ($235,468.08) each year to support the development of understory land.

So far, the county has developed 10,000 mu of understory planting mainly for edible fungi, vegetables, and medicines – along with 5,000 mu set aside for poultry and bees.