Thai Nguyen province has over 800 hectares of seedless persimmons, mainly the LT1 persimmon and a local variety. Orchard owners say that, despite lower yields, the fruit has a polished appearance, which has helped boost prices. This year, some persimmon orchards have opened for experiential tourism.
Farmer Hoang Thi Huong of Dong Phuc commune said: “Our family’s persimmon yield is lower this year, but the fruit quality is quite good. The persimmons are large, uniform in size, and beautiful in colour. Last year, we sold them for around 1 US dollar per kilogram. This year, the farm-gate price is a little higher.”
Trieu Van Quy, whose persimmon orchard was selected to open for tourists during this year’s harvest season, said: “I’m very happy and excited to welcome visitors to our orchard. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to introduce our specialty seedless persimmons and our homeland to tourists. I hope this activity will help expand the outlet for our persimmons and increase our income.”
The local authorities have guided farmers in planting, tending, and harvesting persimmons to ensure fruit quality. Bui Thi Thu, Vice Chairwoman of the Na Ri communal People’s Committee, said: “The commune has 60 hectares of persimmon trees, and we plan to expand the growing area to 150 hectares by 2030. Persimmon trees grow well in Na Ri’s mountainous terrain. The communal People’s Committee has taught the farmers planting, tending, and harvesting techniques. Over 40 hectares are already harvested, generating high economic returns and helping local people escape poverty.”
Deep processing and the One Commune, One Product program have opened new sales channels and will allow persimmons to remain on the market well beyond the harvest season.
