The 2025 World Peony Conference and the 34th Heze International Peony Culture and Tourism Festival have kicked off in Heze City, east China’s Shandong Province. Under the theme “Let the World Fall in Love with Heze’s Peonies,” the month-long celebration not only offers breathtaking floral displays but also highlights the city’s commitment to ecological protection and scientific innovation.
Known as China’s “Peony Capital,” Heze has cultivated over 1,200 peony varieties. This success is attributed to a favorable natural environment and targeted green policies that promote sustainability. One of the city’s ecological milestones is the construction of wetland parks. Heze boasts four national and ten provincial wetland parks, making it one of the cities with a complete range of wetland types in Shandong Province.
By restoring riverbank ecosystems and improving water quality, these parks have enhanced soil fertility and regional biodiversity. This has created a stable habitat for wildlife and supported the large-scale cultivation of peonies.
Scientific innovation also plays a key role in driving Heze’s peony industry. The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences has developed a breakthrough storage method using natural low temperatures to break dormancy in potted peonies. This technique addresses challenges like faded flower color, poor leaf development, and post-bloom plant mortality, resulting in healthier and more marketable blooms.
These advancements have expanded Heze’s global footprint. Peony products from Heze, including seeds, cosmetics, teas, and artwork, are now exported to over 30 countries and regions. Stronger branding and international partnerships have boosted the city’s presence on the world stage.
The city is also embracing smart agriculture by encouraging digital monitoring systems and automated irrigation in peony farms. These technologies optimize resource use and reduce environmental impact, aligning with China’s goals for sustainable rural revitalization.
As China promotes high-quality development and ecological civilization, Heze’s model offers valuable insights. The upcoming 2025 Heze Peony International Communication Forum will serve as a platform for dialogue on sustainable industry growth, biodiversity protection, and cultural exchange.
