Brian Jeffrey
According to Jess McHugh, a journalist for The New York Times, the lotus harvesting experience in Vietnam is truly captivating.
In a piece released on November 14, the esteemed U.S. publication painted a picture of Vietnamese farmers collecting lotus blossoms, describing the scene as vibrant and lively.
McHugh noted that this enchanting activity has become a popular focus for photographers. Moreover, lotus flowers are a major attraction for various tours in the Mekong Delta area of Vietnam.
She vividly described the farmers, primarily women, who immerse themselves in the shallow waters at dawn, undeterred by the mud, to gather the beautiful flowers.
The lotus harvesting period generally occurs from mid-August to November each year. These skillful women expertly collect each bundle of lotus flowers, clean off the mud, and then neatly tie them before placing them in small boats or canoes.
Lotus flowers are integral to the daily life of communities in Vietnam’s wetland areas. They are utilized for home decoration, enhance flowerpots, and can even be found in various traditional dishes.
Thao Phan, a plant shop owner in Ho Chi Minh City, shared with The New York Times that lotus flowers are symbols of perseverance.
“Even after blooming, you might think the plant is done for, but it has the strength to revive. Once planted, it thrives endlessly,” Thao spoke.
