Success in Cultivating Subtropical Crops in Yongin City Responding to Climate Change

Yongin City has achieved remarkable results in cultivating subtropical crops as part of its agricultural diversification strategy in response to climate change.

Following the successful harvest of bananas, the city has also succeeded in harvesting apple mangoes, demonstrating the potential for new sources of income for farmers.

Currently, Yongin City is growing 75 apple mango trees on an area of 320 square meters. This project, which began in April of last year, has successfully cultivated subtropical crops that were previously only found in Jeju Island in the metropolitan area.

The apple mangoes, now hanging plentifully from each tree, are becoming a new crop in Yongin.

Baehyogyeong, a local farmer attending the tasting event, expressed interest, saying, "I came here to see the cultivation environment and facilities, and to learn a lot so that I can increase my income in the future, and also to lay the foundation for my children to continue this."

Expansion and Future Outlook of Subtropical Crop Cultivation

Yongin City's success in cultivating subtropical crops is not a first.

In February, the city succeeded in harvesting bananas, and continues to cultivate 27 trees. These achievements exemplify the new possibilities for agriculture in the era of climate change.

Farmer Kim Junhee commented, "I believe that the demand for subtropical fruits will gradually increase. Since they are relatively rare compared to other crops, the outlook is bright."

To seek agricultural opportunities amid climate change, Yongin City established a scientific farming facility over an area of more than 1,100 square meters in 2023 to conduct demonstration cultivation.

Mayor Lee Sang-il emphasized the economic value of cultivating subtropical crops, stating, "I believe that through these new crops, we can create new sources of income for our farms."

Additionally, considering the growth period of the 29 varieties of tangor fruits, including Hallabong, which began cultivation last year, harvesting is expected to be possible starting next year.

Yongin City plans to actively gather feedback from farmers and continuously promote the expansion of cultivation varieties and technological development.

Image source: youtube 'ytn', material photos for better understanding of the article / pixabay