Three-Harvest Rotation Fuels Watermelon Boom in Yongkang Town, Yunnan

Yongkang Town, Yongde County, Yunnan – Lush watermelon vines stretch across fields in Yongkang Town, where farmers are busy harvesting and loading plump, sun-ripened fruits. This year, the town’s watermelon planting area exceeds 1,000 mu, with an expected output value of over 6 million yuan. Its innovative triple-crop rotation system—watermelon intercropped with maize, followed by vegetables then rice—has turned farmland into a year-round source of income.

Nestled in a unique mountain-basin terrain, Yongkang enjoys abundant sunshine, well-drained soil and seasonal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for open-field watermelon cultivation. The watermelons here develop rich sugar content from ample sunlight and optimal temperature differences, boasting a sweet, juicy flavour that makes them highly sought-after across markets.

Local farms report strong yields and profits. Average watermelon output tops 3 tonnes per mu, with a value of over 6,000 yuan per mu. Some households with 11–12 mu of watermelon fields expect total incomes of more than 70,000 yuan, supported by wholesale prices of over 1 yuan per jin and retail prices exceeding 2 yuan per jin.

The triple-crop model has transformed local agriculture. By replacing single cropping with "watermelon-maize-vegetables-rice" rotation, farmers have doubled their harvests and improved land utilisation. This approach ensures grain production while boosting returns from cash crops, aligning with China’s rural revitalisation goals.

Beyond watermelons, Yongkang has developed mango and nut industries, forming a balanced agricultural structure. Looking ahead, the town will optimise planting patterns, expand efficient rotation systems and build local agricultural brands to further increase farmers’ incomes.

As stated by local authorities, Yongkang will continue leveraging its resource advantages to promote sustainable, high-value agriculture. The aim is to maximise land potential, drive industrial growth and advance the construction of prosperous, livable villages in Yunnan.