Watermelon wonderland boosts local economy

A farmer holds a large watermelon. [Photo by Zhang Minmin for chinadaily.com.cn]

Located in Fengjiazhuang village, Xiangzhou town, Zhucheng, Shandong, the watermelon plantation known as "Shawotou" features rows of neatly arranged watermelon greenhouses, creating a spectacular sight.

Fengjiazhuang village is situated downstream of the Quhe River, with rich sandy soil that produces high-quality watermelons. With a history of watermelon cultivation spanning over a century, the area is well-known both locally and afar. 

Zhucheng has actively promoted the development of this unique brand and helped register the "Shawotou" watermelon trademark. In 2023, Fengjiazhuang watermelons were even included on the national list of Famous, Special, Excellent and New Agricultural Products.

The watermelon flesh has a rosy color. [Photo by Zhang Minmin for chinadaily.com.cn]

In recent years, Zhucheng has been enhancing agricultural production efficiency and quality by developing new varieties and introducing new technologies. This has injected technological innovation into the high-quality development of agriculture, bringing new momentum to the industry.

Meanwhile, in order to extend the agricultural industrial chain and increase the benefits of agriculture, Zhucheng has been promoting comprehensive rural vitalization. 

Over the years, the city has been integrating production, processing, and sales, and combining agriculture with culture and tourism. This approach has led to the enhancement of all aspects of agriculture and added value throughout the entire agricultural chain. (Edited by Huang Junyao)