In the Wutong Xiangyin Orchard in Longtan Subdistrict, rows of grape racks are hung with bunches of grapes, exuding an attractive fragrance. Many citizens come to taste and pick them. Farmers are also busy pruning, picking, sorting, boxing the grapes, which will be sold to other places.

 

 

Peng Aiying, a villager who lives nearby, has been working in the orchard for a long time, with a monthly salary of 3,600 yuan. She is quite satisfied with this job. “I can take care of my family while working on the doorstep,” said Peng Aiying.

 

The orchard used to be a tobacco seedling breeding base, but it was laid idle due to various factors. After many investigations, Fan Zhitao made up his mind to introduce new varieties and set up a cooperative to turn this abandoned land into a high-end grape industrial park, mainly planting varieties such as Shine Muscat and Moon Drops. 

 

 

“At present, many of our grapes are picked and ordered by the public. Many customers in Guangzhou and Shenzhen will also place orders as soon as the grapes are available on the market. It is expected that the grapes in the orchard can bring an income of 1.6 million yuan this year,” said Fan Zhitao, head of the orchard.

 

 

The ripe “Moon Drops” grapes have a higher glucose content than regular grapes, with unique appearance, thin skin and thick flesh, crispy and sweet, which are deeply favoured by consumers.

 

 

In recent years, relying on local regional advantages and red soil resources, many townships in Guiyang County have vigorously guided and supported large-scale planting industries, like grapes, peaches and watermelons. Through online and offline sales channels, characteristic fruits have brought more income to villagers.