Ancient City Watermelons

Ancient City Watermelons

　　Ancient City watermelons are a traditional and renowned product of Hengnan County, named for the large planting area, high yield, and superior quality in the Ancient City area. The region has a long history of watermelon cultivation. In the past, local varieties were grown, but now the dominant variety is “Xinhongbao,” which is well-suited to the local growing conditions. Farmers follow traditional methods, cultivating the melons with care—using organic fertilizer for both seeding and seedling growth, and avoiding chemical fertilizers. This results in a high fruit-setting rate, with yields of about 4,000–5,000 kilograms per mu. The mature watermelons are attractive in appearance, with thin yet tough rinds that are resistant to storage and transport. The flesh is sandy-textured, sweet, and fragrant, with a sugar content of 11% and a refreshing taste. Each watermelon weighs around 7–8 kilograms. They are pollution-free and hormone-free green foods. Over 400 hectares in towns such as Quanxi and Chashi in Hengnan County are planted with these watermelons, producing approximately 20,000 tons annually, which are sold across the province and to southeastern coastal regions.

　　Source: Hengnan County Government Portal Website