Vietnamese Lunar New Year festivities suffer as extreme weather conditions alter the landscape for kumquat tree sales amid economic strain.
The Impact of Extreme Weather on Lunar New Year Traditions in Vietnam
The Impact of Extreme Weather on Lunar New Year Traditions in Vietnam
Severe weather challenges traditional celebrations and impacts kumquat tree prices.
In Hanoi and various Vietnamese cities, the streets are typically vibrant with potted kumquat trees—often secured to the seats of motorbikes—symbolizing fortune and luck during the Lunar New Year, known locally as Tet. However, this year, the situation has taken a turn due to the aftermath of a typhoon and soaring temperatures that have adversely affected the kumquat harvest, leading to a significant shift in pricing and consumer behavior.
The unfortunate duo of Typhoon Yagi and extreme heat has interrupted the supply chain for kumquats, alongside other ornamental plants integral to the holiday. Traditionally, the kumquat—a small citrus tree with deep cultural significance—would flourish in homes, offices, and stores as a symbol of good fortune during Tet. In contrast, many families now find themselves opting for smaller, budget-conscious alternatives such as orchids or persimmon branches due to rising costs and limited availability.
Local farmers specializing in ornamental plants face challenges, having accumulated unsold stock amidst erratic market trends, dampening their spirits as they deal with the economic fallout. Nguyen Thi Hoa, a kumquat tree grower near Hanoi, expressed the widespread dissatisfaction among farmers in her area. "We're all in a sad mood," said Hoa, as she witnessed the unsold kumquat trees, now priced at around 600,000 Vietnamese dong (approximately $24)—down by almost 40% compared to previous years.
The significance of the Lunar New Year in Vietnam cannot be overstated; it is a celebration deeply rooted in cultural importance, reminiscent of Christmas and Thanksgiving combined. As the cornerstone of Tet celebrations, kumquat trees traditionally adorn homes and businesses, embodying the spirit of the holiday.
This year, the troubles began in September when Typhoon Yagi caused widespread flooding, severely affecting farmland during a crucial growing season for kumquats and other ornamental staples. Sadly, Hoa noted that the floodwaters obliterated half of the 500 kumquat trees she cultivated—an unfortunate loss that highlights the impact of climate events on cultural practices and local economies.
The unfortunate duo of Typhoon Yagi and extreme heat has interrupted the supply chain for kumquats, alongside other ornamental plants integral to the holiday. Traditionally, the kumquat—a small citrus tree with deep cultural significance—would flourish in homes, offices, and stores as a symbol of good fortune during Tet. In contrast, many families now find themselves opting for smaller, budget-conscious alternatives such as orchids or persimmon branches due to rising costs and limited availability.
Local farmers specializing in ornamental plants face challenges, having accumulated unsold stock amidst erratic market trends, dampening their spirits as they deal with the economic fallout. Nguyen Thi Hoa, a kumquat tree grower near Hanoi, expressed the widespread dissatisfaction among farmers in her area. "We're all in a sad mood," said Hoa, as she witnessed the unsold kumquat trees, now priced at around 600,000 Vietnamese dong (approximately $24)—down by almost 40% compared to previous years.
The significance of the Lunar New Year in Vietnam cannot be overstated; it is a celebration deeply rooted in cultural importance, reminiscent of Christmas and Thanksgiving combined. As the cornerstone of Tet celebrations, kumquat trees traditionally adorn homes and businesses, embodying the spirit of the holiday.
This year, the troubles began in September when Typhoon Yagi caused widespread flooding, severely affecting farmland during a crucial growing season for kumquats and other ornamental staples. Sadly, Hoa noted that the floodwaters obliterated half of the 500 kumquat trees she cultivated—an unfortunate loss that highlights the impact of climate events on cultural practices and local economies.
