'Precision management' provides cherry on top for Henan farmers

Within an array of greenhouses in Tianxing ecological park, Xin'an county, Henan province, rows of cherry trees nestled in pots are bearing clusters of ripe, luscious fruit. Against a backdrop of lush green leaves, the cherries glisten in the generous beams of sunshine — a testament to the meticulous care they receive.

"These are our carefully cultivated potted cherries, developed over three years and encompassing five distinct varieties," said Liu Xiankuan, head of the park.

"They have already been preordered by customers from Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing, showing promising returns," Liu said.

Traditionally, cherries grown in North China are not widely available until May. As a natural cultivation area for Chinese cherries, Xin'an has pioneered innovative growing methods, integrating new technologies to transition from "traditional management" to "precision management". The cherries grown in the greenhouses have matured ahead of schedule, boasting vibrant colors, large sizes and sought-after sweetness since February.

Reliable power supplies are considered a crucial factor in propelling the transformation and upgrading of traditional agriculture.

"Empowering industry and enriching the people start with reliable electricity resources. We have established a special team to enhance the business environment, actively engaging with distinctive industry projects, monitoring progress in real-time and tailoring our electricity supplies to meet evolving needs so as to enhance the quality of rural power grids, serve the county's economic development and empower rural vitalization," said Guo Xiaojing, general manager of the Xin'an branch at State Grid Corp of China.

Focusing on the cherry sector's growth, the power supplier has tailored its services, engaging with the county, towns and villages to understand industry development plans and electricity needs, Guo said.

As a result, more and more cherry growers have been attracted by the potential for increased incomes and prosperity. By constructing smart greenhouse facilities and implementing integrated water and fertilizer management, farmers are finely controlling the growth cycles of their cherry assets.

This precision management allows for staggered cherry harvests, extending the selling season and boosting economic returns. The "red fruit" has now also been transformed into a "golden fruit "of prosperity for farmers in the region.

"Leveraging our abundant and reliable power supplies, we utilize an electrification system coupled with temperature control technology to manage the cherry trees' growth cycle," said Liu.

"This advancement has significantly accelerated the cherry maturation process, allowing buyers to enjoy the delicious fruit in early spring."