Since 2016, Sady Dnipra (UApple) has been developing orchards near Dnipro in central Ukraine, focusing on apples and pears for both local and export markets. The company now manages about 180 hectares, including 150 ha of apples and 30 ha of pears (mainly the Novemberskaya variety). Among the apples are internationally demanded cultivars such as Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Pinova, Red Delicious, and Fuji. A recently introduced early Gala strain, ripening three to four weeks earlier than the standard, showed good potential and was planted in new blocks.
The orchards are based on M9 rootstock with planting densities evolving from 3.5 × 1 m to 3.2 × 0.7 m, supported with trellises, hail nets, and drip irrigation. Irrigation water is stored in a reservoir where it is warmed before distribution via automated fertigation. Crop protection remains a key challenge, with scab, powdery mildew, aphids, mites, and codling moth causing pressure. The farm works with Dutch consultancy FruitConsult, using RimPro disease modelling and a Davis weather station. "We aim to minimize chemical inputs and gradually increase the use of biologicals, but pest pressure remains high," says chief agronomist Ihor Butkovskyi.
Mechanization is applied where possible: pruning platforms are used in winter, while shredded branches are left as mulch. A defoliator improves color development in red varieties before harvest. Labor demand remains significant, especially during peak periods.
Most of the premium fruit is targeted at export markets in Europe and the Middle East, where strict color requirements push growers to adapt technologies. Despite pests, diseases, and climate risks, Ukrainian producers are increasingly resilient, combining investment, international expertise, and varietal innovation to strengthen their position in global markets.
Source: techhorticulture.com
