248 new fruit varieties introduced in Sanya

The mango pineapple. [Photo/Hainan Daily]

The tropical fruit germplasm resource nursery at the Sanya Tropical Agriculture Research Institute covers an area of about 32 mu (2.13 hectares) and has been cultivating novel, high-quality tropical fruit varieties since 2015.

To date, a total of 248 varieties of tropical fruit trees from low latitude regions around the world have been collected and preserved.

According to Lin Yingtao, a technician at the Sanya Tropical Agriculture Research Institute, in 2023, the tropical fruit germplasm resource nursery cultivated more than 70 varieties, including mango pineapples, rose apples, and Brazilian giant black cherries.

The technicians at the nursery have conducted repeated surveys and experiments to study the growth habits of introduced tropical fruit varieties in Sanya. They have also evaluated the initial performance of different varieties based on the local growing environment and growth characteristics.

After the evaluation, they selected suitable varieties for growth in Sanya and have initiated research on variety adaptability and cultivation techniques.

Lin further explained that, based on the ecological and climatic conditions, soil types, and farming systems in Sanya, they have already chosen new varieties such as rose apples, mango pineapples, and apple dates for localized trials and promotion in Sanya.

In recent years, Sanya has expanded the variety of fruits, diversified sales channels, and strengthened brand recognition, promoting the extension of the tropical fruit industrial chain and achieving prosperity in the fruit industry, affluence for fruit farmers, and rural vitalization.