In the context of economic development - poverty reduction is always the key goal, Bao Lam district, Cao Bang province - one of the most difficult localities in the country, is gradually looking for solutions.
The planting of the leaves of the giang tree will be implemented from 2022, and is expected to improve people's lives. The giang tree belongs to the bamboo family, and the leaves can be used to make bags, storage boxes, and food preservation... In particular, dried giang leaves have high value on the market.
Through implementation in Bao Lam district, giang trees are assessed as easy to grow, require little care, are suitable for local soil conditions and bring profit.
According to statistics, the giang tree can be harvested after about 8 months of planting, with an average yield of 30-70kg of leaves/tree/year. Market prices range from 12,000-18,000 VND/kg of fresh leaves, helping to significantly increase farmers' income.
On December 14, speaking with reporters, Mr. Ma Gia Hanh - Chairman of Bao Lam District People's Committee - shared: "Implementing the National Target Programs, the district has focused on researching and implementing feasible projects, in which the leaf-harvesting plant was chosen because of its outstanding economic efficiency.
With an estimated income of 500 million VND/ha in the first 3 years, the district will continue to promote propaganda and mobilize people to expand the planting area, aiming at sustainable poverty reduction and household economic development.
To date, the project has attracted 665 households to participate with a total area of 1,512 hectares. The average yield is 128.9 quintals/ha (plants over 1 year old), bringing in an income of 500 million VND/ha/year.
The project is also supported by the National Target Program for Socio-Economic Development, with a total budget of over 14 billion VND. Currently, the communes of Thai Son, Thai Hoc, Yen Tho, Thach Lam, Quang Lam and Vinh Phong are the localities directly benefiting from this project.
"Two years ago, many people were still hesitant when it was suggested to grow giang trees for their leaves, but now this variety of tree has brought about results that make everyone excited," shared a resident of Bao Lam district.
Not only households participating in the project, many people have also experimented with growing Giang trees and achieved positive results. Mr. Nong Van Thu (residing in Khau Ninh hamlet, Thai Hoc commune) - said: "My family started growing Giang trees in March 2023, after 5 months, the first harvest was made. Up to now, the family has harvested more than 2 tons of leaves, selling at a stable price of 14,000-16,000 VND/kg".
In addition, the harvesting and processing of the leaves also creates jobs for local workers. People participating in the harvest can earn 350,000 VND/day, with a salary of 6,000-7,000 VND/kg and a harvest yield of about 50kg/day.
Bao Lam district is currently facing many difficulties, especially when nearly 50% of households are still poor. Previously, people only grew corn, rice and some local agricultural products, and their economic income was still unstable.
The cultivation of the leaves of the rose myrtle plant has initially brought positive results, opening up a new direction in improving the income and life of people in Bao Lam district. In order to develop the rose myrtle plant sustainably, the locality is researching and applying new care methods to increase leaf yield. At the same time, solutions to improve processing and establish a stable consumption chain are also being prioritized.
