Under-forest economy boosts rural development in Xifeng

In recent years, relying on its advantageous geography and unique natural environment, Shidong town in Xifeng county, Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province, has actively explored new models for developing the under-forest economy.

The town has vigorously promoted the cultivation of crops like sweet potatoes and potatoes under the forest and introduced gastrodia elata varieties that are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions. At the same time, it has expanded under-forest breeding, utilizing the abundant forest resources to raise chickens, ducks and geese.

In late August this year, the town's Dahong village planted 10-mu (0.67 hectares) of gastrodia elata introduced from Hezhang county in Guizhou. By the end of the harvest season in December next year, it is expected to generate nearly 900,000 yuan ($126,540) in economic benefits.

The under-forest economy fully utilizes forest land. By cultivating gastrodia elata without affecting the growth of the trees, the contiguous forest canopy provides shade and moisture, creating an ideal environment for gastrodia elata to grow, reducing the occurrence of pests and diseases, and lowering planting costs.

Moreover, cultivating gastrodia elata can improve soil quality, promote forest growth, and realize a symbiotic relationship between forest and medicinal crops, leading to both economic and ecological benefits.