On Thursday, 28 June, the national Pear Day was held in the Netherlands for the ninth time. It was organised on Vogelaar Fruitcultures' (Fruvo) premises. On this swelteringly hot day, about 1.400-1.500 people visited the little town of Krabbendijke. Here, they got to see the latest technology being used in pear cultivation as well as interesting demonstrations. People were also able just to have a good chat with their suppliers. The day was led by the Dutch horticultural association, ZLTO, the Dutch fruiter growers organisation, NFO's Zeeland/Noord Brabant branch, and Dutch cultivation consultancy, Delphy. They ensured that this day was, once again, a resounding success.
The growing of pears is innovative in many areas. These include labour, certification, and automation. Then there is precision and sustainable cultivation and risk control for hail and frost damage, to name but a few. Many innovations in all sorts of fields were presented this year. Machines were demonstrated in the orchards. Visitors could also go on a fruit safari on the grounds. This was taken through the organically-farmed groves, the cultivation of the Xenia variety, and that of red pear varieties.
Two trips had to be made to have a look at the red pear varieties. The group interested in this was more than 60 strong. Wind machines and night frost controls were also on display.
Click here for the photo report
Author: Andrea van den Hoven
Source: www.agf.nl
