Busy days in Southern Lam Dong’s watermelon fields as Tet approaches.

With less than a month until the 2026 Lunar New Year, the early signs of Tet are becoming visible in the watermelon fields of southern Lam Dong Province. As the morning mist still hangs over the riverside plots along the Dong Nai River, farmers in major watermelon-producing areas such as Da Teh and Cat Tien have begun their workday. By first light, they make their way to the fields, diligently tending to every aspect of cultivating the Tet watermelons — a crop regarded as the most vital of the year.

Mr. Nguyen Quang Tau’s family, located in Da Teh Commune, has been cultivating watermelons for many years. This year, they planted over 4,000 square meters of watermelons for the Tet harvest. Currently, all family members are dedicated to crucial tasks, such as trimming the vines and selecting the best fruits.

Drawing from their experience, they allow each watermelon plant to retain only one top-quality fruit. This practice ensures that nutrients are concentrated, helping the fruit grow larger and more uniformly, with a shiny green skin and vibrant red flesh — essential qualities that influence the value of watermelons for Tet.

For those who grow watermelons, happiness is found not just in their flourishing fields but also in the anticipation of a successful Tet after months of dedicated effort.

Mr. Luong Minh Te from Da Teh Commune shared that the watermelons are expected to reach maturity just as the Tet market begins to buzz with activity. “The melons are predicted to be ready around the Kitchen Gods Day, and we will be in full harvesting mode from that point until about the 25th day of the twelfth lunar month, when we will wrap up sales,” Mr. Te stated.

During the rapid growth phase, cultivators must consistently trim secondary vines to concentrate nutrients on the primary fruit, while frequently rotating the melons to maintain an appealing appearance. Each of these tasks necessitates careful attention and expertise, as even a minor error can impact the quality of Tet watermelons.

To ensure a successful Tet watermelon harvest, farmers typically invest about 10 million VND per 1,000 square meters in seedlings, fertilizers, growth boosters, plastic coverings, and labor. Under favorable weather conditions, yields may reach 4 to 4.5 tons per 1,000 square meters, providing a substantial income.

Mr. Luu Van Phuong, Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee of Da Teh Commune, stated that the watermelon crop this year has benefited from relatively good weather conditions, leading to healthy growth.

“Certain cultivation areas have already undergone selective thinning and are being meticulously cared for to guarantee that harvests are ready in time for the Lunar New Year. Additionally, local authorities are collaborating with relevant agencies to assist farmers in managing pests and diseases, ensuring safe and effective production,” Mr. Phuong mentioned.

According to local officials, Tet watermelons are among the many crops farmers pay particular attention to during the growing season. This crop is not only the most significant harvest of the year but also a vital source of income for numerous long-time watermelon-growing families in the communes of Da Teh and Cat Tien as Tet and spring approach.

In the final days of the year, throughout the extensive watermelon fields, each fruit is meticulously cared for and nurtured, growing gradually in the farmers’ eager hopes. Amidst the busy countdown to Tet, the sight of farmers diligently working in their fields not only reflects the urgency of the harvest but also creates a serene, warm image of the countryside in southern Lam Dong.