On June 26, 2024, an exciting news spread across the country: China's wheat grown in the Taklamakan Desert yielded 294 kilograms per mu! This achievement is not only a breakthrough in terms of production, but also an unexpected surprise for us. Originally known as the largest "oolong project" on the mainland, it is now showing its great potential and value
Faced with the seemingly impossible challenge of growing wheat in the desert, scientists did not back down. They chose Makati County, on the edge of the Taklamakan Desert, as the test field. The natural conditions in this area are extremely harsh, 90% of the area is covered by desert, saline land is everywhere, and there is almost no rainfall in a year. Scientists began their journey to tackle key problems in such a difficult environment
Scientists use modern technology to provide nutrients to the desert. They added organic matter and sand fixing and water-retaining agents to the sandy land, transforming the otherwise barren sandy land into suitable soil for planting. In order to ensure the healthy growth of wheat seedlings, scientists also spray them with anti-disease and insect-resistant protective agents, and use precision irrigation and soil testing formula fertilization. With the support of science and technology, wheat seedlings broke through the sand, showing the miracle of life. After the yield measurement, the yield of these wheat per mu exceeded 260 kg. This figure is a miracle in the history of desert cultivation, and what is even more surprising is that the quality of the wheat is not inferior to that of wheat grown in traditional agricultural areas
Looking back on the whole process, the perseverance and wisdom of the scientists are admirable. From the initial doubt, to the later amazement, they use practical actions to make the impossible possible step by step. The development of science always starts with hypotheses, and after repeated trials and demonstrations, theorems are finally formed. Growing wheat in the desert sounds ridiculous, but it is precisely with the persistent exploration of scientists that this "impossible" has become a reality
In addition to the breakthrough in yield, desert wheat has also brought significant economic and ecological benefits. It is estimated that the yield of desert wheat can reach 294 kg per mu, which is 20% higher than that of wheat in traditional agricultural areas. The development of agriculture in desert areas has not only boosted the local economy, but also improved the ecological environment. The harvested wheat stubble becomes a natural sand barrier, firmly grasping the quicksand and putting on a "protective suit" for the desert. As the wheat stubble decays, organic matter increases in the sand, so does its ability to conserve water, and drought-tolerant plants begin to grow on the sandy land, which was once barren
Wheat has a well-developed root system that penetrates deep into the sand layer and absorbs water and nutrients from the soil. After the wheat is harvested, the roots remain in the sand, making the barren sand loose and fertile. Desert wheat not only improves the soil structure of the sandy land, but also absorbs the salt in the soil, making the once saline land suitable for other crops. In Kashgar, a new wheat variety called Jingmai 183 is being popularized on a large scale, and the yield of this salt-alkali tolerant wheat variety is as high as 690 kilograms per mu. After planting this variety, the salinity of the soil has decreased significantly, and many crops have been able to take root here
When the voices of skepticism died down, attention was drawn to the practical benefits of desert wheat fields. From economic to ecological benefits, the results of desert wheat planting have exceeded expectations. In Makati County, China's largest desert wheat base, wheat fields have covered 7,000 acres of sandy land. Patches of golden ears of wheat have become the most beautiful scenery in the desert. In Yache County, not far away, Jingmai 183 has been promoted on a larger scale
In the face of the success of desert wheat planting, we must also be soberly aware that there are still many challenges. Harsh natural conditions, limited water resources, and fragile ecological balance are all problems that need to be solved in the future. Scientists need to continue to explore more efficient and environmentally friendly planting techniques, and the government and all sectors of society need to provide more resources and guarantees
The success of desert wheat planting is not only an outstanding embodiment of scientific and technological innovation, but also a model of harmonious coexistence between human wisdom and nature. With their perseverance and wisdom, scientists have set milestones for us. They show us that no matter how desolate the desert is, it can give birth to vibrant hope, and even the barren land can be full of vitality with the blessing of science and technology. The story of the desert turning into an oasis continues, and the road to the future may be hidden in seemingly "oolong" attempts
The miracle of wheat in the Taklamakan Desert shows us the infinite possibilities of scientific and technological innovation. Scientists use their wisdom and perseverance to create a new future for us. It is believed that in the near future, there will be more "miracles of Maigaiti" staged in the depths of the desert, and more oases will rise in the sea of sand. All this will bear witness to the power of science and technology and the determination of human beings to pursue a better life unremittingly