On Aug. 18, workers at Hongze Lake Farm utilize hydrogen balloons to lift hoses above their crops to spray gibberellic acid, a chemical used to promote rice growth. Photo: VCG

A worker fills a tank with gibberellic acid that will be sprayed on crops via hoses tied underneath the hydrogen balloons. Photo: VCG

Using hydrogen balloons for spraying saves labor, time, and effort. Photo: VCG

This method can also minimize crop damage, effectively boosting rice yield. Photo: VCG

The adoption of hydrogen balloon spraying is part of China’s broader drive to promote innovation in agriculture. Photo: VCG

An aerial view of the hydrogen balloons. Photo: VCG