Nanchong Cabbage

Nanchong Cabbage

　　Nanchong County has a long history of vegetable cultivation, with cabbage being the most renowned. Locally known as "bāo xīn cài" (packed-heart vegetable), it stands out among the county’s vegetable crops. Historical records indicate that during the Republican era, Nanchong County designated three production teams, including one in Shahe, as specialized vegetable units, with 550 acres dedicated to commercial vegetable farming—primarily cabbage. Subsequently, the range of varieties gradually expanded. In 1982, the county cultivated vegetables on 3,000 acres, over 2,000 of which were planted with cabbage. The product was highly favored by customers for its thick, crisp, and tender leaves, tightly packed heart, large size, and rich nutrition, leading to strong sales across markets both within and beyond the province. Over the years, Nanchong County has prioritized the production of Nanchong cabbage as a key component in developing its distinctive agricultural industry and increasing farmers’ income. The county has vigorously implemented a “Four Modernizations” strategy—namely scaled production, scientific cultivation, branded marketing, and socialized services. It has promoted green practices and taken a distinctive development path, placing strong emphasis on technical development, standardized production training, demonstration, and extension. Through enhanced regulatory management and improved quality services, the county established the Technical Regulations for Pollution-Free Output Production of Heading Cabbage in Nanchong County, significantly improving product quality. As the first county in Bazhong City to comprehensively advance pollution-free vegetable production, Nanchong vegetables have become a major source of supply for autumn off-season markets in cities across Sichuan and Shaanxi, while also gaining a certain market share in major cities across China. The county sees substantial export volumes of its produce, contributing markedly to increased farmer incomes and prosperity. Currently, the county’s cabbage planting area spans 30,000 acres, with a total output of 120,000 tons and an output value reaching 60 million yuan.