Core Insights - The article highlights the successful development of the ginkgo leaf industry in Shitan Town, which has transformed from traditional farming to a profitable agricultural model through the cultivation of ginkgo leaves, benefiting local farmers and the economy [1][2]. Summary by Sections Industry Development - In 2015, Shitan Town began experimenting with the cultivation of 900 acres of ginkgo leaves, leveraging the "returning farmland to forest" policy, which initiated a combination of ecological restoration and industrial revitalization [2]. - The establishment of a modern ginkgo leaf drying factory in 2021 significantly increased the annual output value of the ginkgo industry from over 1 million yuan to an expected 4.5 million yuan in 2023, with dry leaf prices reaching up to 18,000 yuan per ton [2][3]. Economic Impact - The ginkgo industry has led to an average annual income increase of 2,300 yuan per household, with some farmers reporting profits of nearly 100,000 yuan from their ginkgo cultivation [1][2]. - The local economy has benefited from job creation, with villagers earning approximately 200 yuan per day from leaf picking [2]. Future Plans - Shitan Town plans to expand its ginkgo cultivation area to over 3,000 acres by next year, encouraging the use of marginal lands for ginkgo planting [3][4]. - The town is also working on establishing a deep processing industrial park capable of handling 5,000 tons of dry leaves annually, aiming to extract active ingredients from ginkgo leaves and develop high-value products like ginkgo leaf tea [4].

Core Points - The article describes a scenic autumn trip to the mountains near Anqiu, highlighting the beauty of the fall colors and the cultural significance of the area [1][2][3][4] Group 1: Scenic Description - The journey along the "Anqiu Tianlu" tourist road showcases a variety of landscapes, including peach orchards, terraced fields, and valleys, with the autumn colors transforming the scenery into a warm and vibrant palette [1] - The article emphasizes the transition from summer's lush greenery to the golden hues of autumn, creating a picturesque environment for visitors [1] Group 2: Cultural Significance - The historical context of Chengding Mountain is introduced, where Confucius established a school, and the story of the two ancient ginkgo trees, symbolizing a loving couple, is recounted [2] - The article details the visit to the Gongye Long Shrine, which honors the sage, and describes the serene atmosphere and historical artifacts present in the shrine [2][3] Group 3: Personal Reflection - The experience of standing beneath the ancient ginkgo trees evokes a sense of connection to history and nature, illustrating the profound impact of the environment on personal reflection [3][4] - The article concludes with a sense of understanding and appreciation for autumn, suggesting a deeper emotional resonance with the season [4]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the emerging trend of individuals in Taizhou collecting and selling ginkgo leaves, which have gained popularity and monetary value in recent times due to their aesthetic appeal and demand from various buyers [1][3]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - Fresh ginkgo leaves can be sold for over 20 yuan for 100 pieces, leading many residents to take up leaf collecting as a part-time job [1]. - There are over 30 individual sellers on the Xianyu app from various locations in Taizhou, indicating a growing market for ginkgo leaves [1]. - Buyers primarily include wedding companies, craft makers, and parents seeking materials for children's school projects, with some buyers coming from northern and western cities [3]. Group 2: Value Addition and Craftsmanship - Sellers like Wang, a mother from Huangyan, emphasize the importance of leaf quality, noting that only leaves without black edges and of a certain size are desirable [3]. - Wang has been inspired by artisans who create intricate crafts from ginkgo leaves, leading her to explore enhancing her skills to add value to her products [3]. - Another collector, Mr. You, mentions that leaves of good quality, regardless of type, can be processed and sold as preserved specimens or art pieces, with prices ranging from a few yuan to several tens of yuan per leaf [4]. Group 3: Environmental Considerations - The collection of fallen leaves is considered a normal activity as long as it does not involve damaging trees, and it is not expected to significantly impact the ecosystem [4]. - Authorities advise caution regarding the collection of certain protected species, such as wild ginkgo trees, to ensure environmental conservation [4].

Core Insights - The peak viewing period for autumn leaves in Beijing has been delayed by about a week this year due to unfavorable weather conditions and plant diseases [5][6][9] - The best viewing period for red leaves in major parks like Fragrant Hills is from October 25 to November 15, with a red leaf rate of up to 80% for certain species [5][9] Weather Conditions - The combination of high temperatures and prolonged rainy weather in September and early October has negatively impacted the color change of leaves [6][8] - Ideal conditions for leaf color change include significant temperature drops and strong sunlight, which were lacking earlier in the season [6][8] Plant Health Issues - The health of the yellow-leaf trees has been compromised by diseases such as powdery mildew and wilt disease, affecting their ability to change color [8][9] - The wilt disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus that has persisted in the soil for years, complicating control efforts, especially in mountainous areas [9] Viewing Opportunities - Despite the delay in red leaf color change, other colorful foliage can be found in various parks, including ginkgo and purple leaf plants, providing diverse viewing options [11][12][14] - The Olympic Forest Park is highlighted for its vibrant ginkgo trees, which have already turned bright yellow, attracting many visitors [11][12]