As autumn arrives in Liulin County, Shanxi Province, rolling hills ignite in hues of fiery red. The culprit? Kochia, commonly known as broom grass, whose vibrant foliage transforms the landscape and signals harvest season for local communities.
Farmers here have dedicated 12 hectares to broom grass cultivation, tapping into the plant’s unique properties. Once harvested and dried, the stalks are bundled into durable brooms—an age-old craft that’s seeing renewed demand in both urban markets and export channels.
But the impact goes beyond scenic beauty. Villagers have woven a full industry chain—from planting and processing to transport and sales—into their livelihoods. This integrated approach has opened new revenue streams, helping families diversify incomes and stabilize their economic outlook.
Looking ahead, local cooperatives are exploring value-added products like decorative arrangements and eco-friendly packaging, aiming to innovate within this traditional sector. As the crimson hills of Liulin glow each autumn, broom grass is proving that sustainable farming and rural revitalization can flourish side by side.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
