Beijing Cultivates Fragrant Willow Trees

Ruan Tan Park in Beijing is a well-known tourist attraction, famous for its approximately 3,000 willow trees. The cultivation of new varieties like 'Luo Shi Teng', which originated in Shanghai and requires different climate conditions, is being undertaken from scratch. The goal is to enrich the 'Guo Ying' series and introduce more fragrant and uniquely shaped willow varieties. The report also touches on the importance of building a community of life for humans and nature, said respect and protection of nature and biodiversity. Xiangfeiying, a variety with a fragrance, was introduced from Shanghai and required adaptation to Beijing's climate, as there were no successful cases of flowering this type of willow in northern China. The project aims to enrich the Guoying series and introduce more fragrant varieties and unique tree shapes. This effort focuses on preserving and propagating these unique botanical specimens. Advanced climate-controlled boxes maintain an optimal temperature of 18-20 degrees Celsius for cultivation, even when outdoor temperatures reach 6-7 degrees Celsius. This system allows for rapid cultivation, with one batch taking less than a day for three people to process. During cultivation, a contaminated golden ear fungus was discovered in one of the boxes, requiring immediate attention. The report also touches on the historical significance of Tianjin lacquerware, which traditionally involved simple carvings on red and white lamps for ceremonies and weddings. Modern lacquerware artists are adapting traditional techniques to three-dimensional forms, facing challenges in replicating the flat designs of traditional 'Meng Wa' figures.