US: Golden apple award for farming family
“We’ve been working so hard over the years and we’ve made it,” said Ronnie.
“We feel really good about it.”
Back in 2001 the couple began producing 84 bins per acre of ambrosia apple and 72 bins per acre of gala.
“The grade and size was outstanding along with the high yields,” states a BCFGA press release.
Among the steps they have taken towards a successful orchard are summer pruning and using a nutrient program based on soil, leaf and fruits.
They also maintain a strict spray program as a way of reducing the impact of pests and disease on their crop.
While considerable time and effort goes into the orchard, Ronnie admits it’s necessary if the farm is going to be successful.
“To grow good fruit, you have to be out there,” she said.
Besides the orchard, the Manns operate a 1.5-acre nursery in Lavington.
The award was presented at the recent B.C. Tree Fruit Horticultural Symposium in Kelowna.
