In Luochuan County, Yan'an, within Shaanxi province, apple cultivation has become a cornerstone of the local economy, transforming the landscape into a hub for apple industry innovation. The region, with its 530,000 mu of apple orchards, yields over 1.1 million tons of apples each year, involving 95 percent of local farmers and contributing to the same percentage of residents' income. This agricultural venture not only supports economic stability but also exemplifies the potential of agriculture as a sustainable and forward-looking industry.
Central to Luochuan's apple production success is its focus on genetic improvement and varietal innovation. The apple germplasm resource nursery in Luochuan, housing over 4,000 apple germplasm genes and 600 premium varieties, functions as a critical research and development hub. Among its achievements is the development of the "Qincui" apple, a variety that underscores the county's role as a leading center for apple research akin to an apple "Silicon Valley."
Modernization efforts in Luochuan have led to significant changes in orchard management, transitioning from traditional tall trees to dwarf and densely planted varieties that facilitate easier maintenance and reduce injury risks among farmers. This shift, alongside the integration of hail nets, sprinkler systems, and pest control measures, has propelled the mechanization rate in orchards from under 20 percent to over 70 percent, effectively doubling both output and income.
The apple industry park in Luochuan stands as a testament to the comprehensive development of the apple value chain, hosting an array of enterprises involved in trading, cold storage, smart logistics, and deep processing. Innovations such as intelligent apple sorting lines, which can capture 72 photos of an apple in one second for automatic grading and sorting, exemplify the high-tech approach embraced by the industry. Furthermore, the park's commitment to sustainability is evident in its integrated apple-livestock farming system, producing 250,000 tons of organic fertilizer annually.
Luochuan's strategic focus on variety innovation, quality control, and market expansion has elevated the "Luochuan apple" brand to national and international renown, achieving an annual output value exceeding 1.96 billion USD. Through continuous improvement and a commitment to quality, Luochuan apples have secured their place in the global market, contributing to the region's economic vitality and rural revitalization.
Source: People's Daily Online