An aerial view of Yangshan in Huishan district, Wuxi. [Photo by Zuo Jianan/chinadaily.com.cn]
With the increasing popularity of Yangshan Honey Peaches and sufficient government support, the lives of peach farmers have significantly improved.
Liu Xiaoqin, a peach farmer in Yangshan, gave a thumbs-up to government efforts in technical support and new peach breed introduction, which helped her expand her plantation from 2 mu (0.33 acre) 20 years ago to more than 100 mu today.
Wu Xiaobo, a peach farmer who was selected to be "Peach Queen" this year due to the good quality and large size of peaches in her orchard, said that the comprehensive government guidance has considerably benefited new farmers like her that did not have any prior experience in planting.
"Moreover, the government enhanced brand promotion and protection measures, which has continued to bolster the image of Yangshan. Farmers like me, when we don't have peaches to sell, can explore peach-related industries like cultural and art products, as well as homestay businesses to gain extra income," Wu said.
"We are optimistic about the 'honey peach economy' and our lives are now as sweet as Yangshan Honey Peaches," Wu added happily.
