方城县杨集镇：小芦笋种出致富大产业

Core Insights - Asparagus cultivation is emerging as a new highlight for industrial revitalization in Tianzhuang Village, Fangcheng County, with significant economic benefits and employment opportunities for local residents [1] Summary by Sections Asparagus Cultivation - The asparagus planting base in Tianzhuang Village shows promising growth, with yields increasing over the years: 800 to 1,000 pounds per acre in the first year, 2,000 to 2,500 pounds in the second year, and reaching 3,500 to 4,000 pounds in the third to tenth years [1] - The asparagus is planted outdoors, with spring harvests starting in March and autumn harvests from July to mid-August, followed by root and stem maintenance [1] Economic Benefits - The asparagus market is lucrative, with prices ranging from 5 to 8 yuan per pound, generating approximately 5,000 yuan per acre in income [1] - The cooperative has signed purchase agreements with a bamboo shoot factory in Shandong, with 90% of the produce exported to South Korea and Japan [1] Employment Opportunities - The asparagus cultivation process requires significant manual labor, providing numerous job opportunities for local villagers, with workers earning around 90 yuan per day and annual incomes of 10,000 to 20,000 yuan [1] Future Development Plans - The cooperative plans to expand the cultivation area to 100 to 150 acres and implement a new model of "asparagus + cicada" farming, aiming for dual income streams from both crops [1] - In June 2024, the asparagus base will begin planting cicada eggs, further promoting local agricultural development and wealth creation [1]