Experts at a daffodils base in Pingtan county are conducting experiments - using daffodil seeds from locations including Pingtan, Zhangzhou and also from overseas - with the aim of growing new types, the Pingtan Times reported on Dec 11.

He Huazhen, a technician at the Pingtan Daffodil Test Base - a major scientific project of Fujian province - said that they aim to improve the quality of daffodils through research and tests on different types.

"The Zhangzhou daffodils, for example, have good bivalves. So we hope to grow a new type based on them after make them accustomed to the climate in Pingtan."?

Pingtan Forest Park Co Ltd and the Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University received approval from the provincial authorities to build the base in March and it started operation in September.

Feng Liqiang, secretary-general of the Pingtan Daffodil Association, said that they aim to conduct experiments which will help experts develop the daffodil industry of Pingtan.

He also said that the Pingtan daffodils are known for their fragrance and beauty, and that local authorities plan to grow the flowers on a large scale due to the island county's unique climate and geographical conditions.

Feng added that the county has applied to the State Administration of Industry and Commerce for a special certification for daffodils and they aim to "fill the whole county with the beautiful flowers."

Edited by Chen Zhilin and Niva Whyman