Shandong district's cherry industry in full bloom

The cherries in Chayekou town start to ripen. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In recent years, the continuous promotion of cherry culture, strengthening of the cherry industry, and emphasis on cherry planting technology in Chayekou town, Laiwu district, Jinan have led to increased incomes for residents, improved agricultural efficiency, and enhanced rural beauty.

Known as the "Hometown of Cherries", the history of cherry cultivation in Chayekou town can be traced back over 300 years. The town boasts a total area of over 12,000 mu (800 hectares) dedicated to high-quality cherry cultivation, with an annual cherry output value of 200 million yuan ($27.41 million).

Harnessing its annual cherry cultural tourism activities, Chayekou town has been committed to creating a new rural cultural tourism model that integrates cultural and artistic performances, cherry picking, culinary experiences, and camping study tours.

To enhance the added value of agricultural products, Chayekou town has assisted local businesses in launching processed cherry products such as cherry wine, canned cherries, and cherry juice. Meanwhile, it has also opened an online store to broaden sales channels and introduced cherry picking study activities.

To meet the growing demand for cherry cultivation technology among fruit farmers, Chayekou town recently organized the first Laiwu Cherry Industry Development Forum, inviting experts to give lectures on the current status of cherry industry development, new superior varieties, and simplified planting techniques. Top meteorological service experts were also invited to provide weather analysis reports for fruit farmers, ensuring meteorological support for the development of new quality productive forces in the cherry industry. (Edited by Li Weiwei)