Xiuwen kale goes nationwide via air freight

A total of 1.8 metric tons of kale from the Yanyingshan village organic vegetable demonstration plantation in Xiuwen county was delivered to Shanghai on May 12 via air freight.

The plantation covers 60 mu (4 hectares) and grows two popular vegetables: kale and beetroot. Kale was planted in early February this year and hit the market at the end of April, cultivated in two forms: potted and open-field, with the potted kale selling for 29.9 yuan ($4.45) per pot. The open-field kale can be harvested continuously until the end of August, with an estimated yield ranging from 10,000 to 25,000 kilograms per mu.

Villagers harvest kale at the plantation. [Photo/website of Xiuwen county]

"Our base sits within a primary drinking water source protection zone," said Zhao Mingang, a representative of the plantation. "Kale thrives at temperatures between 10 C and 30 C. With an altitude of around 1,400 meters, this area rarely sees temperatures exceeding 30 C all year round, making it ideal for growing this vegetable."

With its organic, nutrient-dense profile, kale has become popular among young consumers and is currently in short supply in the market. The plantation sells its produce online via e-commerce platforms, including JD.com and Pinduoduo, and uses air freight to fulfill 10 to 15 orders to Shanghai and Guangzhou every month.

"We ship roughly 3 tons of produce every day, which is sold across the country through online channels," Zhao said.

Workers prepare harvested kale for air shipment. [Photo/website of Xiuwen county]

During the kale harvest season, about 30 to 50 local workers work on the farm each day. Since the plantation broke ground, it has provided more than 2,000 jobs for villagers, with over 200,000 yuan paid out in wages.