Xinjiang,China- In the heart of Kekedala city, Xinjiang, lies the intelligent greenhouse which is the first semi-enclosed greenhouse that operates efficiently in all weather conditions in southwest China.
These vibrant red gems aren’t just any tomatoes; they’re the product of cutting-edge agricultural technology within a smart greenhouse managed by Runtai Agricultural Technology Development Co., Ltd.
High-Tech Farming in Xinjiang
Using soilless cultivation techniques and a plethora of sensors, this greenhouse is a marvel of modern agriculture.
Tang Yue, the executive director of Runtai, explains how digital technologies and Xinjiang’s unique climate combine to produce cherry tomatoes that are not only delicious but also impeccably shaped.
The greenhouse spans 16.67 hectares and operates year-round, thanks to investments from renowned global agricultural companies.
“We adopt third-generation smart agricultural technologies from the Netherlands,” Tang says. “Compared to conventional open-field cultivation, our annual yield is five to six times higher, and we use just 1/20th of the irrigation water.”
Leveraging IoT for Optimal Growth
The greenhouse is a showcase of the Internet of Things (IoT) in agriculture.
Su Xiaolong, the technical lead, details how sensors for temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, and pressure collect over 20 million pieces of data daily.
This data feeds into an “intelligent brain” that guides the greenhouse operators with optimal management instructions.
An integrated water-fertilizer irrigation system ensures the cherry tomatoes receive the perfect amount of nutrition.
Alongside this, the park implements green, pollution-free practices like biological control and bumblebee-assisted pollination.
This combination of high-tech and eco-friendly practices has led to significant cost savings—over 40 percent, according to Su.
Economic and Social Impact
The park’s primary crops are cherry tomatoes and various cherries. Tang notes,
“The yield per mu of cherry tomatoes can reach 16 tonnes, with annual sales revenue expected to hit 40 million yuan ($5.5 million).”
Beyond the impressive financials, the park also provides employment for nearly 300 people from nearby villages, allowing them to work close to home.
This blend of technological innovation and social responsibility sets a new standard for agricultural practices in the region and beyond.
