Ten Thousand Mu Dragon Fruit in Shiping County, Honghe
Chinese Name:石屏县大桥乡万亩火龙果
English Name: Ten Thousand Mu Dragon Fruit in Shiping County, Honghe
Overview
In recent years, Daqiao Township in Shiping County, part of the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, has leveraged its altitude, climate, and resource advantages to adjust its agricultural industry structure. Following the principle of “plant what is suitable, arrange by steps, and grow in a three-dimensional manner,” the township has expanded its dragon fruit industry while diversifying its agricultural structure. Through land transfer, talent-driven initiatives, and large-scale farming operations, Daqiao has developed a new agricultural industry pattern with dragon fruit cultivation as the mainstay, supplemented by early-season vegetables and specialty fruits.
Dragon Fruit Industry: Enhancing Quality and Efficiency
New Varieties and Techniques
The township has introduced new dragon fruit varieties such as Jindu No.1, Hongbaolong, Guibolong, and Yanwo fruit, which are larger, less prone to cracking, easier to store and transport, and do not require artificial pollination. Over 16,000 mu of these new varieties have been successfully promoted. Additionally, the use of nighttime LED lighting has been implemented to stimulate flower bud differentiation, allowing for earlier flowering, fruiting, and maturity, and extending the fruit-bearing period into the winter, thereby increasing yield and efficiency.
Economic Impact
Daqiao has also secured funding to promote green, high-quality, and efficient dragon fruit production. By integrating online and offline sales channels, the dragon fruit from Daqiao is sold to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, enhancing the economic benefits for local farmers.
Early-Season Vegetable Industry: Stable and Positive Growth
Utilization of Natural Resources
The township utilizes the natural and geographical advantages of its river valley hot zones to develop early-season vegetable farming. Through industry structure adjustments, leading enterprises, and large-scale farming demonstrations, farmers are encouraged to grow early-season vegetables such as chili peppers, snow peas, tomatoes, and white radishes. This initiative enriches the local “vegetable basket” and enables multiple harvests per year from the same plot of land.
Investment and Infrastructure
Significant investments have been made to build cold storage facilities and fruit and vegetable processing plants, further enhancing the processing, storage, and distribution capabilities of agricultural products. These efforts aim to drive rural industrial revitalization and increase the annual output value.
Specialty Fruit Industry: Thriving and Prosperous
Diverse Fruit Cultivation
Daqiao Township has developed a diverse range of specialty fruits through a model that connects companies, large-scale farmers, and local farmers with agricultural bases. This model optimizes agricultural resource allocation and promotes the cultivation of various specialty fruits such as:
- Myrica Rubra: Over 7,000 mu in Tuanshan and Bainimo.
- Citrus Fruits: Over 500 mu in Sanshudi and Bainimo.
- Peaches and Cherries: Over 1,100 mu of peaches and 500 mu of cherries in Feilong.
- Pears: Over 600 mu in Takeju.
Quality Control and Monitoring
The township conducts regular quality control and monitoring of fruit production, storage, and sales to ensure the safety and quality of agricultural products. Any issues identified during testing are promptly addressed, ensuring the integrity of the agricultural supply chain.
Travel Tips for Visitors
Best Time to Visit
The dragon fruit fields and vegetable plantations are best visited during the peak seasons of the respective crops. The Dragon Fruit Festival, held annually, is an excellent time to experience the vibrant agricultural culture of Daqiao Township.
Location
Daqiao Township, Shiping County, is accessible from major cities and transport hubs in the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture.
Activities
- Dragon Fruit Festival: Participate in fruit tastings, photography contests, and workshops.
- Farm Tours: Explore the extensive dragon fruit fields and vegetable plantations.
- Local Market Visits: Purchase fresh produce and specialty fruits directly from the local markets.
Local Specialties
Enjoy fresh dragon fruit, early-season vegetables, and a variety of specialty fruits such as myrica rubra, citrus, peaches, and cherries. The diverse range of agricultural products offers a unique taste of the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
By visiting Daqiao Township, travelers can immerse themselves in the local agricultural lifestyle, enjoy fresh and high-quality produce, and experience the vibrant culture of Shiping County’s thriving agricultural communities.
