The development of the sunflower oil industry not only creates picturesque scenery but also promises lucrative prospects. After years of development, sunflowers have become a shining feature of agricultural-tourism integration in Xiangping Village, Yangquan Town, Changning City (in south of Hunan Province). At present, villagers are seizing sunny days to plant sunflower seedlings, anticipating another year of "wealth-blooming flowers" and "shared prosperity fruit", to enhance the value of this golden brand.

▲The villagers are busy transplanting sunflower seedlings.

On May 15th, reporters visit the seedling greenhouse in Xiangping Village, Yangquan Town, where verdant green sunflower seedlings are flourishing. It is a clear sign of the prime transplanting season. At the over 300 mu (approximately 50 acres) of oil sunflower cultivation base, dozens of villagers are wielding hoes in terraced fields arranged in staggered layout. They skillfully dig holes, plant seedlings, and cover them with soil, creating a lively and busy scene in the fields.

▲The green sunflower seedlings in the greenhouse are flourishing.

Xiao Wenlong, a member of the Xiangping Village Committee, introduced " Sunflowers offer both ornamental value and robust economic benefits. In the past three years, oil sunflower cultivation base has boosted the collective economic income of the village by an average of more than 300,000 yuan per year. During the blooming season each year, it generates over 100,000 yuan in tourism revenue for the village, with daily visitor numbers peaking at 2,000 to 3,000 during peak periods. It has received widespread praise and recognition from the masses. ”

▲Greenhouse for cultivating sunflower seedlings.

Chen Yunjiao, a villager, shared her story with reporters," I have worked the land my whole life and witnessed the development of the village. From the poverty alleviation workshops in the past to the diversified agricultural specialty industries now, I have participated in it, which has given me a strong sense of fulfillment and happiness. Our pocket have gotten thicker too. These sunflowers are characteristic industry in our village. It has boosted our income. I can also earn money right at home. For example, I boosted more than 10,000 yuan last year, which is particularly good. What's even better is that I can care for the elderly and look after the children while working. It enjoys the best of both worlds."

▲Sunflower cultivation base terraced along mountain slopes.

▲Tourists tick off Xiangping Village during sunflower bloom. (File photo)

In recent years, relying on the favorable and natural environment of the local area, Xiangping Village has adhered to planning-driven development. The village has implemented a five-year plan integrating rural revitalization with agricultural-tourism integration, actively cultivating diversified specialty industries. This approach has not only generated substantial economic benefits for villagers but also paved a new path for the further development of the collective economy of Xiangping Village. Xiao Wenlong stated that in the next step, the village will uphold a "five-element integrated development philosophy" encompassing mountains, waters, forests, farmlands, and settlements. By attracting local elites and private capital to participate in rural revitalization, the village will develop and strengthen "One Village, One Product" specialty industries and advantaged projects, thereby ensuring the stable and healthy development of Xiangping's local signature industries.