As 2018 Lunar New Year is coming, kumquat gardens in the Red River Delta province off Nam Dinh are filled with distinctive aroma of kumquat and people are rushing to get the best looking kumquat trees.

Kumquat gardens throughout Nam Dinh province are packed with people coming from neighboring localities of Ha Noi, Hai Phong and Quang Ninh, choosing the best kumquat trees for decoration during the Lunar New Year festival.

Doan Xuan Dong, a farmer in Nam Phong commune, Nam Dinh city revealed criteria for a best looking kumquat tree, including green, bouncy leaves with juicy golden kumquat fruits that represent fortune and good luck, beautiful smelling flowers.

This year, the price increases by 100,000 - 500,000 VND each tree compared to the previous years. In general, a kumquat tree costs around 500,000 VND for an average one, while a nicer looking tree can cost up to 2 million to 4 million VND, especially, it can reach 8 million VND. The total area for kumquat growing in Nam Phong commune in particular is up to 108 hectares. The living conditions of many households here have been improved thanks to growing kumquat trees.

Nguyen Van Cuong, a farmer in Nam Phong commune, Nam Dinh city said: "Due to unfavourable weather, we face difficulties while growing kumquat tree, the price also increases a little."

2018 Lunar New Year is around the corner and many households are now looking high and low for a beautiful kumquat tree for Tet. The kumquat harvest is promised to be a bountiful one, ensuring a fulfilling traditional Tet for everybody in Nam Dinh province.-VNA