In Minas Gerais, Brazil, a region traditionally synonymous with coffee, a diversification initiative is underway with apple cultivation now making its mark. This venture, orchestrated by Emater-MG, aims to diversify agricultural outputs and ensure farmer income sustainability. The first harvest has yielded 30 tons of apples across municipalities including Alfenas, Guaxupé, and others, signaling a promising start.
The initiative facilitates collective seedling purchases and provides comprehensive technical support, from site selection to tree management. The chosen apple varieties, Eva and Princesa, developed by Iapar, are selected for their climate adaptability, requiring less severe winters. "Apple production requires dedication and technical support," notes Kleso Franco Júnior, Emater-MG's technical coordinator. With 1,500 trees planted over two hectares, the project also focuses on educating regional producers through Demonstration Units.
Beyond direct market supply, the initiative eyes contributions to institutional programs like the National School Feeding Program, hinting at broader societal benefits. The project's scope extends to other temperate climate fruits, with producers leveraging acquired know-how for diversified cultivation. In Guaranésia, a coffee grower experiments with apples, peaches, and grapes, aiming to identify the most adaptable crop.
The project's success in Areado, where 20 producers received seedlings and inputs, sets a precedent for expansion, with plans to include additional farmers and a wider variety of fruits in the coming years. This inclusive approach not only broadens the agricultural landscape but also fosters community engagement and learning.
Source: Abrafrutas
