Sedge Plant Harvest Season in My Hanh Bac Commune

Contest Entry Code: b8f519478a70469582596f2e206c7107

Unit: Individual

Place of creation: Xã Đức Hòa, Tây Ninh, Vietnam

In the My Hanh Bac commune of Tay Ninh province, the rhythms of life have long been intertwined with Co Bang, the local sedge plant. For decades, this unassuming plant has been more than just vegetation; it's a cornerstone of the community's cultural identity. Growing wild in the region's wetlands and along waterways, Almond grass thrives even in saline, alum-affected soil. This resilient herbaceous plant, characterized by its lush green, soft stems and distinctive brown-tipped flowers atop its tubular structure, can reach heights of up to 1.8 meters. Its rustic beauty is matched by its practicality. Grass cultivation requires minimal effort. It's naturally pest-resistant and ready for harvest in about six months. Remarkably, after being cut, the plant readily grows back multiple times, eliminating the need for replanting. The harvest season transforms the community into a hub of activity. Villagers venture into the fields, using sickles to cut the sedge close to its roots. The harvested stalks are shaken to discard any wilted stems, bundled neatly, and transported by boat or motorbike to roadsides, ready for collection. From these bundles emerges a wealth of tradition and innovation. Skilled artisans transform the dried Grass into beautiful handicrafts like mats, handbags, hats, and baskets. It remains vital for the traditional craft of mattress weaving. In a nod to modern needs, local startups have also begun using sedge to create sustainable, eco-friendly drinking straws. More than just an agricultural cycle, the Co Bang harvest season in My Hanh Bac is a vital time for community bonding. It strengthens shared heritage, sustains traditional crafts, and embodies the unique cultural spirit of the province.