Le Na Pai - the sweet fruit of the highlands

After many years of taking root in the Phiêng Phàng area of ​​Thượng Minh commune, the VH6 pear variety (known as Nà Pài pear by the locals) not only thrives but also bears sweet, delicious fruit. From an introduced crop, the pear tree is now opening up an effective economic development direction, contributing to the gradual progress of the Dao ethnic people in this area.

The joy of a bountiful pear harvest.

In mid-July, we arrived at Phieng Phang village, Thuong Minh commune, right during the pear harvest season. Before us were large, golden pears hanging heavily on the branches. The locals told us that in 2019, Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry began implementing the project "Applying science and technology to pear production in Bac Kan".

Seeing that the model was suitable for the climate and soil conditions, some households in Phiêng Phàng village proactively registered to try planting the VH6 pear variety on hilly land that was previously mainly used for growing corn and cassava.

The family of Mr. Trieu Huu Thanh is a household that grows a large number of VH6 pear trees, with over 160 trees currently producing fruit. Mr. Thanh shared: "By participating in the model, my family and other villagers received seedlings and very specific guidance on planting, caring for, fertilizing, pruning, and shaping from the Center for Training and Research on Plant and Animal Breeding at the University of Agriculture and Forestry."

Thanks to the application of science and technology and good care, the family's pear orchard is laden with fruit. Although it's only the third year of harvesting, the average selling price of 30,000 - 35,000 VND/kg has already brought a high income to the family.

Not only Thanh's family, but in Phieng Phang village, people have invested in planting VH6 pears and several other pear varieties, with the area of ​​pear trees yielding harvests exceeding 5 hectares. Many households have converted hillside land previously used for corn cultivation to pear farming, and the initial results are clearly visible.

Mr. Trieu Dinh Quang said: "Pear trees are well-suited to the climate and soil here, are easy to care for, and are resistant to pests and diseases. The villagers are very excited because this year the pear harvest is both abundant and the prices are good. They are focusing on harvesting and selling mainly through social channels and sending them to other localities in the province as gifts."

Recognizing the potential of pear trees, in recent years the local government has collaborated with Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry to develop an innovative agricultural tourism model in Phieng Phang, which includes pear picking experiences and visits to ecological gardens.

Yen Duong Cooperative also participates in supporting people to build organic pear farming models; building the Na Pai pear brand, designing packaging, and developing products to serve the market and tourists.

Ms. Ma Thi Ninh, Director of Yen Duong Cooperative, said: The cooperative is coordinating with villagers to establish a pear-growing cooperative, build a brand for Na Pai pears, and aim for OCOP product status in the near future.

Yen Duong Cooperative supports its members in developing packaging for pear products.

Pear trees are increasingly demonstrating their adaptability to the climate, soil conditions, and farming practices of the people of Phiêng Phàng. Based on these initial results, the people are continuing to convert hilly land previously used for low-yield corn cultivation to pear orchards.

With the support of scientists, cooperatives, and local authorities, the pear tree is not only a new crop but also a living hope on the journey to poverty reduction and sustainable economic development in this highland region.

Source: https://baothainguyen.vn/kinh-te/202507/le-na-pai-qua-ngot-vung-cao-b2d0476/