Learn about Hmong crops, herbs
The conference begins with a tour of four Hmong farms, leaving at 12 p.m., July 19, from Orchid Hall in Asian Village, 4903 Kings Canyon Road, Fresno.
The conference continues 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 20 with presentations and panels also at Orchid Hall.
About 1,300 of Fresno County’s farmers are Southeast Asian refugees who grow a variety of specialty crops on the urban fringes of Fresno, Sanger, Fowler, Centerville and Clovis. In addition to strawberries, these farmers often grow so-called "Asian vegetables," a category which can include bittermelon, lemongrass, sinqua, long beans and eggplant varieties.
Here are some peeks at some of the specialty crops highlighted at the event:
- Madeira vine (Anredera cordifolia) is a special herb found in Laos that can be used as glue.
- Sinqua (Luffa acutangula) is similar to zucchini squash and prepared in similar ways.
- Lemongrass is used in popular dishes at Asian restaurants, and primarily comes from farms in Fresno.
The conference will be presented in English, with some translation from Hmong. Other translation services are available upon request. Please see the full agenda for more details.
This event is free to attend, though RSVP is required. To reserve your space, call 559-600-7203.
This event is made possible by Hmong Farmers Association, in collaboration with UC Cooperative Extension Fresno County, UC Small Farm Program, National Hmong American Farmers, Lao American Federation and Lao Family Community of Fresno.
More information
- Asian vegetables production and marketing information
- Hmong and Lao agricultural resources from UC Cooperative Extension Fresno County
- Food Blog post about Asian vegetables and the Hmong Specialty Crops Conference