Apple Orchards Turn Barren Hillside into a Source of Rural Income

Dragon Media News Desk

Apple trees laden with fruit now cover a hillside in Shuicaoping Village, Goukou Town, Maoxian County, Sichuan Province, China. Until two years ago, the land was barren and overgrown with weeds. It has since been developed into a model apple-growing area.

To make better use of farmland at elevations of 1,400 to 2,200 metres, Goukou Town brought together more than 100 mu of unused land for apple cultivation. The town is also promoting cooperation among businesses, the orchard base, village cooperatives and farming households. The initiative aims to turn idle land into a steady source of income for the village collective and local families.

A professional agricultural operator has been entrusted with the orchard’s day-to-day management. The operator provides support across the production chain, including quality seedlings, technical advice, pest and disease control, and marketing. Demonstration farming and training have also encouraged households in Shuicaoping Village to plant more than 40 mu of apple trees independently.

Apple cultivation now covers more than 490 mu across Goukou Town. The town is working to expand production and improve growing standards. Market interest in premium varieties such as Ruixue has been rising, supported by the geographical indication recognition of Maowen apples. Maoxian County has also been promoting new apple varieties and cultivation methods.

Estimates suggest that apple cultivation can generate more than 2,000 yuan in additional income per mu compared with traditional plum farming. The shift is expected to benefit household incomes and strengthen the village economy.

Goukou Town plans to expand its apple-growing area, improve storage, sorting and sales, and explore ways to connect agriculture with tourism. It aims to make the apple industry a key source of income for local families and a driver of village development