Core Viewpoint - The Xinjiang Hotan region demonstrates that vibrant roses can thrive in the Taklamakan Desert, serving both ecological and economic purposes, with over 70,000 acres of roses currently in the harvesting season [1] Group 1: Economic Impact - Local villagers are actively engaged in rose harvesting, which requires specific techniques and timing to ensure quality, with petals for rose jam harvested separately from buds for tea and essential oils [3] - The rose trading market operates from 9 AM to 8 PM, with daily trading volumes reaching approximately 30 tons of rose petals [6] - Over 2,000 households are involved in rose cultivation in the region, with local cooperatives established to produce products like rose-flavored bread and pure rose water, alongside tourism activities that attract photography and art enthusiasts [7] Group 2: Ecological Benefits - The roses contribute to ecological benefits by stabilizing the desert environment, with the last rose seedling planted in November 2022 marking a successful effort to combat desertification [9] - The cultivation of drought-resistant rose varieties has led to the formation of dense flower beds that effectively block wind and reduce soil erosion [9]

Core Insights - The rose industry in Yutian County, located at the southern edge of the Taklamakan Desert, plays a significant role in both ecological protection and local economic development, with over 72,000 acres dedicated to rose cultivation [7][5][9] Group 1: Rose Cultivation and Harvesting - The optimal harvesting time for rose buds is between 5 AM and 9 AM to ensure high oil content, while petals are harvested avoiding midday heat to prevent dehydration [3] - Each villager can harvest approximately 30 to 50 kilograms of rose petals daily, contributing to the local economy [2][3] Group 2: Economic Impact - The rose industry has become a vital source of income for local residents, with daily trading volumes of rose petals reaching around 30 tons during peak seasons [9][11] - The price of roses this year is reportedly higher than in previous years, indicating strong demand from cooperatives and enterprises [11] Group 3: Employment and Community Development - The rose harvesting season creates seasonal employment for over 7,000 villagers, with daily wages ranging from 120 to 150 yuan [13] - Local cooperatives and enterprises are enhancing the value of rose products, such as rose-flavored bread and pure rose water, thereby increasing job opportunities [11][13] Group 4: Ecological Benefits - The cultivation of drought-resistant rose varieties helps combat desertification by stabilizing sand and reducing soil erosion [9][7] - The successful establishment of rose plants in the desert has achieved a survival rate of 90%, contributing to environmental sustainability [7][9] Group 5: Tourism Development - The rose fields attract numerous tourists for immersive experiences, including photography and painting, which further supports the local economy [5][15] - The local tourism department plans to expand the rose industry through a "cultural tourism+" model, promoting various activities such as picking and culinary experiences [15]