Chimei Nectarines

Chimei Nectarines

　　Chimei nectarines are a specialty of Chimei Town, Neixiang County, Nanyang City, Henan Province. The area produces premium varieties such as “May Fire,” “Millennium Red,” “Early Red Gem,” “Dawn,” “Huaguang,” and “Yanguang.” These nectarines are known for their early ripening, large size, vibrant color, sweet taste, long shelf life, and pollution-free cultivation.

　　Chimei nectarines are mainly cultivated in Nectarine Valley. Located within Chimei Town, Neixiang County, Henan Province, Chimei Town lies at the southern foot of the 800-li Funiu Mountain Range, surrounded by mountains on the east, north, and west. It sits in the transitional zone between subtropical and warm temperate climates, enjoying mild weather, abundant sunlight, and moderate rainfall—ideal natural conditions that make it one of the best regions for growing nectarines.

　　The industrious people of Nectarine Valley began introducing and cultivating nectarines in 1986. After 19 years of breeding efforts and three major generations of variety renewal, they have developed over 30 series, including “May Fire,” “Millennium Red,” “Early Red No. 2,” “Ruiguang,” and “Yanguang.” In recent years, more than 10 additional small dried fruit varieties have been introduced, such as “Japanese Citrus Persimmon,” “Zunhua Chestnut,” “American Apricot-Plum,” “Dahongpao,” and “Prickly Ash,” further enriching the diversity and ornamental value of the orchards. Chimei nectarines are prized for their early ripening, large size, attractive color, sweet flavor, long storage life, pollution-free cultivation, and low pest incidence. In 2001, they were recognized as a branded product at the China International Agricultural Fair. In June 2002, the “Chimei Nectarine” trademark was registered with the National Administration for Industry and Commerce. By 2003, the nectarines had obtained national pollution-free agricultural product certification, and the Chimei nectarine production base successfully passed the national pollution-free base inspection. In 2005, the town’s nectarine cultivation area reached 50,000 mu, with 40,000 mu bearing fruit. Every May and June, fruit merchants flock in from all over, vehicles come in an endless stream, and the orchards bustle with activity. Thanks to this, Chimei’s peaches, apricots, and plums are widely distributed to regions such as Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Gansu, Liaoning, Hebei, Hubei, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

　　In 2009, Chimei nectarines were re-certified as pollution-free products and the application was approved.