Farmers are busy in the ponds of Anlong county, harvesting lotus roots in the Qianxinan Bouyei and Miao autonomous prefecture, local media reported on Sept 12. 

Famers pick lotus roots in Anlong Zhaodi Pond in the Qianxinan Bouyei and Miao autonomous prefecture. [Photo/ldqxn.com]

As autumn approaches, lotus root is expected to be a popular vegetable to hit the market. Anlong county has 150 years of history growing lotus root. 

The total planting area in the county reaches 2,700 mu (180 hectares). In addition to Guizhou province, the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, Sichuan and Yunnan province have become major target markets for produce. 

Farmers clean lotus roots after picking them from the muddy waters of Anlong Zhaodi Pond. [Photo/ldqxn.com]

Planting lotuses is also a creative way for the county to increase rural incomes and alleviate poverty. Anlong Zhaodi Pond has become a renowned scenic spot for sightseeing and viewing lotus blossoms in summer.