Chongqing - Ten provincial regions, including Chongqing, debuted their Ecological China•Amazing West campaign internationally on December 21. The media team explored Shuanggui Lake National Wetland Park, Liangping Pomelo Garden, and Chuanxi Fishing Village, highlighting Liangping District's commitment to ecological conservation and green development.
Walking into the Liangping Pomelo Garden, the media team was captivated by the sight of golden pomelos. In this harvesting season, the air is filled with the intoxicating fragrance of ripe pomelos.
Liangping Pomelo Garden. (Photo/Chen Zhan)
As the saying goes, planting a fruit tree involves three parts: growing and seven parts managing. "Our pomelo's taste has improved due to soil testing and precise fertilization, achieving scientific management," shared Zhang Wenhui, the head of Longtan Pomelo Cooperative in Liangping District, during an interview.
At 64, Zhang Wenhui, a local pomelo grower with over 100 acres, has cultivated pomelos since high school, boasting extensive planting experience.
"Using specialized fertilization methods, we've been able to significantly reduce the bitterness and numbing sensation in our pomelos, making them softer and tastier," Zhang explained that they conducted annual soil tests and followed eco-friendly practices, prioritizing ecological sustainability and green growth.
Zhang Wenhui, the head of Longtan Pomelo Cooperative in Liangping District, communicated with the media team. (Photo/Chen Zhan)
Zhang explained the difficulty of replicating the Liangping pomelo elsewhere due to its unique lineage, which had been formed over 200 years through local variations. This variety, beloved by locals, is particularly suitable for digestion and favored by middle-aged and elderly individuals.
Currently, Liangping has a pomelo cultivation area of 150,000 acres with over 8 million trees, including 30,000 century-old pomelo trees. This year's expected yield is approximately 300,000 tons, contributing to a comprehensive industry value of 5 billion yuan.
Liangping Pomelo Garden marketing center. (Photo/Chen Zhan)
The media team also visited the Liangping Pomelo Garden marketing center, where they sampled various pomelo-based products like dried fruits and extracts. Liangping District is known for integrating agriculture, culture, tourism, and commerce, developing a comprehensive pomelo industry. Products range from pomelo tea to preserves, becoming a staple in many households.
Liangping District views the pomelo industry as a critical driver for enhancing farmers' incomes and rural revitalization. They establish standardized pomelo orchards and enhance technological coverage to improve pomelo yield and quality significantly.