A citrus greenhouse at Shuang'ai Family Farm in Rudong, Nantong. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The 4-hectare citrus orchard at Shuang'ai Family Farm in Rudong is expected to achieve full production with a yield of 500 kilograms per mu (667 square meters) by the end of this year, according to Xu Aihong, owner of the farm.

Spanning approximately 106.67 hectares, the farm generates an annual net profit of around 800,000 yuan. Its products are distributed to regions including Beijing, Inner Mongolia, and Hong Kong, all while creating jobs and increasing incomes for local residents, injecting vitality into rural vitalization efforts. 

Xu credits the strong support of Rural Commercial Bank of Rudong for the farm's success. The farm's citrus trees require slightly acidic soil, with a pH of about 6.5, for optimal growth, but local soil pH ranges from 7.5 to 9. To create a healthier growth environment, the farm must apply organic fertilizers regularly, a significant financial investment.

Recognizing the farm's challenges, the bank introduced its "Quick Agricultural Loan" program, featuring low-interest rates and guarantees from the Jiangsu Agricultural Financing Guarantee. The bank approved a credit line of 2 million yuan for the farm, effectively alleviating its financial pressures.

Shuang'ai Family Farm stands as a testament to the power of agricultural innovation and financial support in driving sustainable rural development and enhancing the prosperity of local communities.