This study investigates the factors influencing the adoption of digital technologies (DTs) among growers in China and their impact on economic benefits. Using a mixed-methods approach, data from 435 growers in Shandong and Liaoning provinces were analyzed. The findings reveal that growers' knowledge, technology compatibility, government support, and competitive pressure significantly influence DT adoption intensity. Male growers and those managing larger cultivation areas exhibit higher adoption intensity. DTs enhance economic benefits by reducing labor and input costs, increasing yields, and improving quality, with a 30.4% increase in economic benefits for each unit increase in DT adoption intensity. Qualitative interviews with 15 growers further support these findings, highlighting the importance of knowledge, technology compatibility, government support, and competitive pressure in DT adoption. The study underscores the need for targeted policies to promote DT adoption, including enhancing growers' awareness, providing agricultural socialized services, and aligning DTs with practical agricultural needs. The results provide valuable insights for promoting DT adoption in other countries and regions.This study investigates the factors influencing the adoption of digital technologies (DTs) among growers in China and their impact on economic benefits. Using a mixed-methods approach, data from 435 growers in Shandong and Liaoning provinces were analyzed. The findings reveal that growers' knowledge, technology compatibility, government support, and competitive pressure significantly influence DT adoption intensity. Male growers and those managing larger cultivation areas exhibit higher adoption intensity. DTs enhance economic benefits by reducing labor and input costs, increasing yields, and improving quality, with a 30.4% increase in economic benefits for each unit increase in DT adoption intensity. Qualitative interviews with 15 growers further support these findings, highlighting the importance of knowledge, technology compatibility, government support, and competitive pressure in DT adoption. The study underscores the need for targeted policies to promote DT adoption, including enhancing growers' awareness, providing agricultural socialized services, and aligning DTs with practical agricultural needs. The results provide valuable insights for promoting DT adoption in other countries and regions.