For decades, cotton growers in Xinjiang have wrestled with arid soils, extreme temperatures, and scarce water. But a game-changing innovation from the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps's agricultural scientists is rewriting the playbook.
The new method, known as dry sowing and wet emergence, turns traditional planting on its head. Instead of flooding fields before sowing, farmers plant seeds in dry soil. Once roots start to develop below the surface, a controlled burst of water triggers uniform germination, protecting delicate seedlings and conserving precious resources.
Early adopters are already reaping the benefits. Farmers report stronger, more uniform bolls and a boost in premium cotton yields, even under tough conditions. This not only raises the bar for quality but also supports a more resilient, sustainable approach to agriculture in the Chinese mainland.
Beyond Xinjiang, experts see wider potential. As climate challenges mount around the world, scalable techniques that save water and enhance crop performance could redefine farming in arid zones from Central Asia to the American Southwest.
By combining local expertise with innovative practice, Xinjiang is sowing the seeds of tomorrow’s agriculture—proving that high-tech solutions and traditional know-how can grow stronger together.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
