Watermelons in Shandong's county hit the market

Watermelons cultivated in greenhouses in China are gradually making their way into the market. Dongming county, Shandong province, is especially well-known for its plentiful harvests of this fruit, and merchants are now flocking to the area to sample and purchase them. This increase in trade is helping to bring prosperity to the local villagers.

In Liuqiang village, Chengguan subdistrict, vast stretches of watermelon greenhouses lay out consecutively. The fruits, smooth and plump, are nestled among the vines, exuding an adorable and enticing appearance.

Watermelons cultivated in the Dongming county, Shandong province. [Photo by Dong Zhichao/for chinadaily.com.cn]

"This year's revenue is satisfactory, with each greenhouse yielding approximately 50,000 yuan ($6,900). The quality of the fruit is commendable, characterized by thin rinds and delightful texture," said Liu Chenpeng, a local melon farmer.

Liuqiang village boasts a renowned expertise in vegetable and melon cultivation, with 90 percent of its villagers engaged in this industry. Among its produce, the "Dongming watermelon" holds particular fame. Renowned for its thin rind, juiciness, high sugar content of up to 10.6 percent, and early market availability, its reputation spreads from mouth to mouth among regular customers. This acclaim has attracted a growing number of merchants each year. (Edited by Zhang Ying)