Taking a layered approach
Real-time tissue testing in onions. | 7
Hardy apples perfect for the Canadian Prairies
As community gardens develop, so does interest in hardy apples. | 18
Freeze drying 101
The next frontier in food innovation. | 30
November 2025
fruitandveggie.com
November 2025 Vol.81, Issue 4
A season of plenty 2025 photo contest showcase.
4 Industry News 6
Self-pollinating vertical berry farm in development 16 Researchers aim for profitability with production density and automation.
Biologicals Guide 26
Freeze drying 101 30 The next frontier in food and beverage innovation.
Taking a layered approach Real-time tissue testing for nutrient analysis in onions.
BY JEFF TRIBE
A 150-year legacy of five generations
Succession planning and courageous management are key for this profitable multigenerational farm.
BY TIMOTHY FOWLER
Hardy apples perfect for the Canadian Prairies As community gardens develop, so does interest in hardy apples.
BY TIMOTHY FOWLER
As I write my first editorial for Fruit & Vegetable, I’ve officially surpassed six months as editor. And to think 2026 is only just around the corner … time sure flies.
One of my first projects as editor of Fruit & Vegetable was to kick off the annual photo contest, inviting readers across the country to submit photos of their farms, fruit and vegetable crops, family, insects – anything reminiscent of Canadian agriculture and worthy of a photo (see page 14). We received almost 50 entries, and the competition was stiff! Photos were received from coast-to-coast of your typical Canadian fruit and veggie crops, but there was some fun, unexpected ones – like sea buckthorn and Romanesco.
Congratulations to Alex Chesney from Innerkip, Ont., who is the photographer of the beautiful photo gracing this issue’s cover.
Taking the time to look through the entries gave me a moment to reflect on the diversity of Canada’s agricultural portfolio – and what it takes to grow the beautiful produce captured in those images. And this
16, check out how two Toronto Metropolitan University researchers are scaling up their unique selfpollinating vertical farm system to produce raspberries.
On page 10, learn about a fifthgeneration farm’s 150-year journey to where it is now. Spurr Brothers Farms in Wilmot, N.S. grows a variety of crops and even produces their own cider. What else is noteworthy? This farm is a true testament to the power of succession planning and collaboration.
Plus, take a look, and refer to as needed, at our biologicals guide on page 26 for a comprehensive table of biological products registered for fruit and vegetable production in Canada to help kickstart your planning for 2026.
From tariffs to an incredibly dry summer in Eastern Canada, it’s been quite the challenging year for Canadian farmers. But facing challenges isn’t anything new. There are always trials and tribulations no matter the year – and it’s the resilience of farmers to ‘keep on keepin’ on’ that keeps the wheel turning.
“From tariffs to an incredibly dry summer in Eastern Canada, it’s been quite the challenging year for Canadian farmers.”
issue takes a dive into a variety of challenges, along with management solutions, that Canadian growers face to grow this beautiful produce.
On page 7, discover how University of Guelph graduate research assistant Ifesinachi Nelson Ezeh is improving nutrient analysis in onions to give farmers results in real time to help make timely management decisions. On page
I wish you all the best for the remainder of 2025 as we head into another new year. If you have any topic ideas you think should be covered in Fruit & Vegetable, please send me an email at jfilmer@ annexbusinessmedia.com. •
204-596-8710 CEO SCOTT JAMIESON sjamieson@annexbusinessmedia.com
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in Canada ISSN 1488-7959 Fruit & Vegetable Magazine is published three times a year (November, Jan/Feb,
The Government of Canada is committed to strengthening the Canadian economy and its global competitiveness. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is supporting this commitment through a suite of regulatory changes aimed at reducing red tape and supporting economic resiliency for Canada’s agricultural sector.
These regulatory changes were committed to as part of the CFIA’s Progress Report on Red Tape Reduction. This includes changes to
the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations, which includes: removing prescriptive labelling requirements for fresh fruits and vegetables; and removing mandatory grading requirements for all produce intended for further processing, manufacturing or preserving.
This also includes having certain fresh fruit and vegetable grade standards managed by the Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation. This means these standards can be changed more quickly to
BY
meet the needs of the industry, encourage innovation and remain competitive.
These amendments demonstrate the CFIA’s continued commitment to review its regulations and remove unnecessary burden and red tape while continuing to uphold the high standards that Canadians expect from the country’s food and agricultural systems. The CFIA will continue working closely with provinces, territories and industry leaders to deliver results that matter.
Farmland values of Canadian cultivated land have rose at an average of six per cent in the first half of 2025 according to a report from Farm Credit Canada (FCC).
These findings from a mid-year farmland values review by FCC indicate growth due to a mix of market forces and regional dynamics – which varies from province to province. Manitoba has the largest increase at 11.2 per cent. Ontario and British Columbia farmland values remained stagnant.
Sales prices per acre have only risen slightly. The market is
Dry onions were Canada’s most important field vegetable crop in terms of value for 2024.
stabilizing – provinces with strong growth in the past few years are “seeing a softening in land prices,” meanwhile others with modest growth are having higher gains.
Farm cash receipts for grains and oilseeds are anticipated to decline overall by six per cent in 2025 – but the steady decline of interest rates and “healthy” farm balance sheets may lend support to farmland values. But the second half of 2025 and into 2026 may impact demand if the farm economy reflects a “more cautious environment.”
Canadian farmers produced a record
298,564 hectares of dry onions were planted in Canada in 2024.
As of 2024, the U.S. is the top importing country of Canadian onions and shallots. tonnes of fresh dry onions in 2024.
In 2024, Canada exported over 67 million kilograms of fresh or chilled onions and shallots, valued at $89.2 million.
6,485
From January to July 2025, Canada exported 26.4 million kilograms of fresh or chilled onions and shallots.
Real-time tissue testing for nutrient analysis in onions.
BY JEFF TRIBE
The Picketa Leaf Evaluated Nutrient System (LENS) uses spectrometers and AI algorithms, not incantations and a wand, to quite literally peel back layers of nutrient mystery on onions and other field crops in real time.
But there is something undeniably magical about its operation, says Ifesinachi Nelson Ezeh, a graduate research assistant with the Department of Plant Agriculture at the University of Guelph.
Ezeh’s career was influenced through belief crop research could help feed the world’s growing population, including that of his birth country, Nigeria. At Russia’s St. Petersburg State Agrarian University, Ezeh earned a Bachelor of Agriculture and subsequently a Master’s degree in agronomy and crop science, with a perfect 5.0 grade point average for valuable research in improving wheat resistance to leaf rust diseases. Having worked briefly as a lecturer at the University of Nigeria before taking up the graduate position at the University of Guelph in 2023, Ezeh’s current focus is on challenges facing onions, carrots and table beets, including new technologies for tissue testing.
Onions in particular can be sensitive to nutrient imbalances, which can affect bulb size, yield, susceptibility to disease, and ultimately, storability. Current testing involves sample collection, packaging, shipping and laboratory analysis, a process which can take between four and seven days, says Ezeh. Time and financial constraints around testing can be limiting factors for some growers, and additionally, the timeframe for acquiring results may also be problematic, given any delay in deficiency mitigation can be ‘disastrous.’
“We are looking to bridge that time gap.”
The Picketa LENS seeks to do just that by providing test results in real time through a portable interface akin to or smaller in size than a suitcase. It includes a probe which scans leaves using Flame spectrometers calibrated for both the VIS-NIR (350–1000 nm) and NIR (900–1700 nm) spectral ranges to collect spectral signatures. Data is collected from the scanned leaf and transmitted to cloud-based pre-trained machine learning (ML) models for analysis in real-time. An onscreen report
ABOVE Using the Picketa LENS to scan leaves collected from onion plants.
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Onion leaf samples ready for analysis.
is then generated in the user-friendly format of the Picketa Fieldbook for infield decision-making. “This happens in a matter of seconds,” says Ezeh.
Thirteen nutrients may be analyzed, including nitrogen, potassium and manganese, which are particularly crucial for onion production, along with phosphorus, magnesium, nitrate, boron, sulfur, calcium, zinc, iron, aluminum and copper. The report includes an analysis of the 12 pertinent nutrients in the onion model, with the option of isolating individual elements for colourcoded (a range of very high to very low) interpretation.
Of itself, AI is not smart in a traditional sense but rather requires generating an extensive database and an effective
framework, in Ezeh’s words, ‘training.’
“You have to generate data and train the ‘model,’” said Ezeh, noting that onion work has been ongoing for three years, including 2025.
Centred geographically in Ontario’s Holland Marsh, 2024 data generation and correlation, for example, utilized samples from the Ontario Crops Research Centre-Bradford (formerly Muck Research Station) and five grower fields. Testing occurred three times during the season, between 40 and 84 days after planting. At each of five field locations, which included the four corners and the centre, 20 plants were analyzed. From each sampled location, 10 leaves were collected from 10 plants in one row, taken from the two centre rows of the bed.
Ifesinachi Nelson Ezeh is a graduate research assistant with the Department of Plant Agriculture at the University of Guelph.
Correlation analysis is a crucial component of Ezeh’s research, comparing Picketa LENS values to laboratory numbers to ensure accuracy and effectiveness.
“At this point, we are seeing some moderately significant correlations between lab results and those we are getting from the Picketa LENS. However, this is because the current model is general and not onion-specific.”
Results are consistent. However, there may be a gap between lab and Picketa LENS results for some nutrients, the latter tending to be a little higher. Both results are, however, in what Ezeh terms ‘the same direction’ (positive) and within Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) sufficiency ranges for most nutrients measured. While not always identical, they are also close enough to support decision-making.
No one tool is perfect, he added, but the Picketa LENS system has great potential, particularly with ongoing improvement through implementation of 2025 data.
“To optimize it, refine so it gets as good as it should be,” said Ezeh. “Hopefully, after this year’s field season, we should be looking at a really good onion model for this device.”
The intent, he continued, is once having perfected the onion model to expand into other crops including carrots and celery.
Real-time nutrient analysis presents multiple potential benefits, beginning with the ability to react quickly. “Things don’t wait for you,” Ezeh said, noting growers may be able to proactively deal with problems not yet visible or apparent. Additionally, the deficiency impact may worsen by the time results get back. “If you wait that four to seven days, you may be too late to intervene.” Every intervention is weather dependent, Ezeh added, real-time analysis providing the chance to react prior to a window of opportunity closing.
Beyond cost savings related to preventing crop or storage losses, producers and crop advisors armed with
effective real-time analysis may be able to consider a more tactical and strategic approach to support or mitigation. Compared to blanket application, this might represent a cost-effective approach with added environmental advantages. Additionally, in conjunction with soil testing, data can assist in field management decisions. “You want to know what that plant has taken up,” said Ezeh.
The AI technology at the Picketa LENS system’s heart is also a sign of the future he believes, how its capacity can be harnessed for positive applications. “It’s the first step towards other things that are yet to come,” said Ezeh, real-time tissue analysis being an important component in, for example, an autonomous robotic approach to seeding, mechanical weeding, spraying and harvesting crops, an idea that is already popping up in agricultural circles. “It becomes one step towards integration that can do things more effectively and non-destructively.”
From Ezeh’s perspective, realtime nutrient analysis is an ‘exciting technology.’ Ezeh encourages producers and crop advisors to consider embracing when models become available.
OMAFA vegetable crops specialist Travis Cranmer concurs with Ezeh about the ‘exciting’ potential of real-time nutrient assessment, along with the value of a deep data base, recognizing diversity in cultivar and growing seasons. “The more data points you have, the more robust the model becomes.”
Compared to corn, soybeans and wheat, onions for example, are a comparatively lesser-studied quantity. The amount of research done on the first three are significantly larger and better funded than that done for onions – much of the nutrient research done on them dating back 40 years. “So we’re actively trying to update those recommendations,” said Cranmer.
“I wish I could say what the magical recipe was for the perfect amount of micronutrients for onions,” he added, “but there is always room for improvement.”
One example of ongoing research would be reducing nitrogen application 25 per cent from a recommended 100 pounds per acre. Indications are this won’t compromise yield; cost savings also encourage a slower rate of growth and smaller cells that are potentially less susceptible to bacterial rot. “It’s tough for someone to implement that
change because they don’t want to miss out on the yield potential.”
Bacterial rot is the number one challenge to storage says Cranmer, finding its way into onions during the growing season or harvest and processing, popping up five months later. Routes may include wounds caused by overhead irrigation, insect damage or mechanical injury. “Once it’s in there, there’s nothing we can apply to kill these bacterial cells,” said Cranmer, who advises ‘handling with care and limiting drops’ as a good starting point.
OMAFA does offer a list of strategies for managing rot which includes preventative measures such as burying residue after harvest, implementing a longer crop rotation, choosing cultivars with thinner necks and avoiding cultivars that have trouble lodging. Throughout the field season, bacterial rots may be avoided by minimizing damage from downy mildew, thrips and herbicides as well as avoiding overhead irrigation at later stages of bulb development.
“You put quality into storage, you are able to get quality out by implementing the correct growing practices,” Cranmer concluded. •
Succession planning and courageous management are key for this profitable multigenerational farm.
BY TIMOTHY FOWLER
Meet Lisa Jenereaux, Katie Campbell and William Spurr, the youngest generation of farmers at the helm of Spurr Brothers Farms in Wilmot of the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia. They are the fifth generation of farmers and have mastered the combination of growing produce for wholesale distributors, while introducing a completely vertical retail model where fruit, vegetables and 12 flavours of cider are delivered at their market and taproom.
Managing a family farm five generations deep is a tough assignment. There is a freight train of emotion tied up in the
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legacy of the farm, and at the same time, it is a business – farming is a tough enterprise that demands a combination of hard work, dedication, sharp-witted focus, courageous decision making and skillful execution.
Established in 1875, Spurr Brothers Farms is in the Melvern Square of the Annapolis Valley. Shippy Spurr started the farm with 62 acres of hay, grain and apples. William, Shippy’s son, joined the farm 46 years later in 1921, adding another 20 acres
Siblings Jenereaux and Spurr are fifth generation leaders of Spurr Brothers Farms in Nova Scotia.
of land and potatoes to their crop. In 1946, William’s sons Lawrence and Cameron, the third generation, took over the operation of the farm expanding to 500 acres. In 1982, the fourth generation made significant changes, separating the farm into two divisions: Cameron retained control over some orchards and strawberries; Bill and Gordon, (Lawrence’s two sons) took on potatoes and the rest of the orchards. Together they increased and diversified the farm.
The farm currently is 650 acres made up of 45 acres of onions, 10 acres potatoes, two acres peaches, five acres pears, 85 acres apples, 150 acres grains, 80 acres soybeans and 100 acres in cover crops. 150 acres are rented out to other growers. Garden production has 10 dedicated acres, and 350 acres are dedicated to wholesale.
Lisa Jenereaux, Bill’s daughter, and current president and CEO, joined the farm in 2001, launching the fifth generation of the family farm with her new ideas for planting additional varieties and expanding fruit production. In this role, she continues to be a significant influence on the growth and success of modernizing the farm.
Katie Campbell, Gordon’s daughter joined in 2006. Like her father, Katie manages the packing house, oversees food safety, the market and much of the farm’s business side.
Bill’s son William Spurr took over growing strawberries and small vegetables in 2012. After Gordon’s passing in 2016, Spurr assumed many of his responsibilities, including potatoes, onions, carrots and cover crops.
Most recently, Spurr Brothers Farms launched a new division of the farm, brewing hard cider made from ingredients produced on the farm. The grand opening of the market and taproom, celebrated in 2022, brings fresh cider, local goods and a true farm experience to guests—signaling the beginning of Spurr Brothers Farms retail and their agri-tourism journey.
“I’m proud of the whole business, like I’m just proud of the fact that we are now fifth generation. We’re celebrating 150 years this year. I’m super-proud of the fact that our multi-generational family farm is still running. Here we are 150 years later, and the fifth generation is running it, and it’s successful,” says Campbell.
All three worked on the farm from a very young age. Talk to them and they will share the fun they had as kids stamping potato bags, sorting fruit, picking up the remnants from winter pruning – all the while, learning the complex workings of a farm.
“It was just part of life—I would help on the farm—that really instilled in me a powerful work ethic. In this business, you must want to put in the work and effort,” says Campbell.
A five-generational legacy requires planning. So, the family developed a succession plan. A year later, Campbell’s father became seriously ill and passed away within months. Because the family tackled succession planning in an effective way, everything was in place. The transition was smooth despite dealing with the grief of losing a close family member while managing urgent production and operational issues.
Cultivating Tomorrow; Advancing Production Technology
Old Orchard Inn, Greenwich, Nova Scotia
“We went into the next generation with a clear picture of how we are moving forward. We treat it like a business. (Because it is.) No one gets a free ride. Family members working on the farm are compensated according to their responsibilities. What happens to shares when someone passes away or leaves the farm (needs to be addressed and resolved),” says Jenereaux.
“I tell people to make sure that you must plan for succession because you just never know what’s going to happen. You just need to start it. That’s the biggest thing. Once you get started, it’s easy, but nobody wants to get started. Seriously, get started – talk. Communication is the biggest thing,” adds Spurr.
The three of them came to a consensus on how to alter the wholesale versus retail segments of the business, pursued significant changes in production and how Spurr Brothers Farms went to market.
Spurr very much wanted to pursue cider-making, meanwhile Jenereaux and Campbell saw the benefits of expanding the market. As Spurr became more proficient at making cider, he began to focus on adding
value. Cider is the perfect product to use blemished apples. His pursuit of making cider led him to a local college course and eventually to Cornell University for an intensive hard cider course. That changed his approach and helped perfect the cider produced at the farm today.
“We had a little farm market right at the farm. That was going well, but we really wanted to expand, so we built the farm market tap room,” says Spurr.
The tap room has seen double digit growth year over year. Spurr saw an opportunity to use strawberries and peaches that were not suitable for retail sale and incorporate them into specialty ciders with great success. Spurr Brothers Farms is two different businesses now. William says that this format works well.
“Someone asked me when we first [started to open] the market, ‘what’s more important, the wholesale aspect of the farm or the retail aspect of the farm?’ They’re both important. We were too heavy in the wholesale because of the peaks and valleys in that business. There’s a lot of up-front costs and you don’t get paid for a long time. With direct-toconsumer sales it’s more consistent, which helps us with the cash flow,” says Spurr.
“The (expanded) farm market and Taproom have been fabulous. It’s been
encouraging to see the community support, and how much growth we’ve experienced. We had a vision for this place and for what we wanted to do. I will tell you it is a scary thing because you jump into a project like this, and you just don’t know what’s going to happen. We have phased out of some of our wholesale stuff, like wholesaling potatoes. We used to grow up to 250 acres of potatoes, now we grow a few acres just enough to supply our market, and a few local stores. Potatoes were one of our main things, we phased out of that and into the cider, and the market. It’s a big leap. It has also been very exciting. We experienced huge support from our lenders, the community and our team.”
Jenereaux has this advice for family farm operators: “If you aren’t on the same page from the beginning, get a professional to help you through the process. Everyone needs to speak up and be honest about what they want, what they think is fair and where they see the future of the farm.”
There is no question the fifth generation of the Spurr Farm is passionate about continuing the farm’s legacy, holding close to the family’s values of producing the highest quality products in the Annapolis Valley. •
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BY JILL FILMER
The entries received for Fruit & Vegetable’s 2025 photo contest showcased a diversity of crops at various stages throughout the growing season, all displaying an overwhelming sense of good ol’ homegrown Canadian produce. This includes the winning cover photo from Alex Chesney of Innerkip, Ont., featuring the perfect overlap of the strawberry, raspberry and blueberry seasons. Thanks to all who submitted a photo. Here’s a few honourable mentions.
WINNER A trio of berries captured in early July.
The hands that feed you.
Researchers aim for profitability with production density and automation.
BY MATT MCINTOSH
Researchers from Toronto Metropolitan University are moving into the field development stage of a unique self-pollinating vertical farm system designed for producing high-value crops.
Called “MoFarm,” researchers Habiba Bougherara and Lesley Campbell – mechanical engineer at the school’s Faculty of Engineering, and plant scientist with its Faculty of Science, respectively – embarked on the project to support year-round food production through more economically viable indoor agriculture technology.
Currently, most vertical or container farming operations focus on high-volume crops such as herbs, lettuce and other leafy greens where pollination is not required for production.
Bougherara and Campbell say diversifying into higher-value crops is an opportunity since vertical farms have significant associated operating costs.
Higher value crops, says Campbell, may help make vertical farms economically viable if other elements of the production system, such as efficient pollination, can be developed. Their MoFarm system intends to remedy these problems.
“The thing we’ve heard from many farms which have tried to produce fruit like strawberries is they are really missing the pollination component,” says Campbell.
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“When they release bees, the bees have a hard time navigating because of the artificial light, and when they are able to function, their lifespans are much shorter. It gets to be much more expensive and less productive. Our system is a very lowcost technology that facilitates food production and takes vertical farming from this business that produces low-value crops to something that produces high-value crops.”
A commercial model of the MoFarm system is set to be constructed in Montmagny, Quebec in collaboration with Montel Inc. Operations will begin by July 2026. The exact design details remain proprietary knowledge at the time this article was written, though the researchers can reveal some basic characteristics.
“What we have developed is a pollination and air circulation system which works autonomously. And in this system, the plants get uniformly pollinated in a micro-growing environment,” says Bougherara. The air-circulation system creates turbulence between plants, displacing pollen from flowers, which subsequently lands on other flowers.
The design of the growing area features
Diversifying into higher-value crops, like raspberries, is an opportunity since vertical farms have significant associated operating costs.
individual – and stackable – boxes within which plants are housed and pollinated via the air system. Precision and scalability are cornerstones of the design, intended to improve yields while reducing labour costs. This stacked box design also provides solutions to problems common in greenhouse fruit production –specifically thermal clines, the high-costs and large physical footprint they require, and comparative inability to control the environment on a micro level.
“Greenhouse and other container systems rely on HVAC. They control basically the whole greenhouse or container. We have HVAC on the side. However, once inside the canopy, we can control the air circulation there within 16 square foot grow areas. This is what’s missing in other systems. Microclimates inside the growing area are not controlled,” says Bougherara. Campbell adds their system makes thermal clines “disappear.”
Both researchers highlight the comparatively low cost of their MoFarm design. In practice, Bougherara says a single box, containing nozzles and fans, can be built for less than $200. Major savings come from scaling production in layers, compared to expanding the farm’s footprint to scale production.
“How much does it cost to produce a new acre of greenhouse, versus how much does it cost to add layers in your greenhouse that already exists?” says Campbell. “We radically reduce the cost of increasing crop density relative to the area you can grow that crop. It’s a fraction of the cost.”
Raspberries were chosen as the first crop to be grown in the MoFarm system because the pair say it’s the next crop which they believe should be commercially produced in greenhouses. While a lot of work has been invested into greenhouse strawberry production, and profits are possible, Campbell says making money with strawberries is still challenging for many. Far from being easier, raspberries under conventional greenhouse systems are very challenging to grow profitably.
“If you look around Ontario, it’s difficult to find many producers currently doing it – if they’re out there, we would love to talk with them,” she says. “It’s really hard to harvest and move raspberries out in a hot space – and greenhouses can get very hot. It’s also hard to find the raspberries in the canopy. We think raspberries deserve more effort, and so we’re taking it on to figure out how can we make this more economically viable.”
“The second thing is, if we can keep them at a really good temperature – and vertical farms allow us to manage that more quickly – we’re less likely to pass that threshold of a fruit we can pack and transport to a fruit that’s quickly rotten.”
Campbell adds a “tightly controlled” lighting schedules enables them to grow much shorter plants. This means fruit production can begin much more quickly.
“Part of the problem with raspberries in greenhouses is just the schedule and getting them to fruit quickly enough to make the yearly schedule profitable.”
For Bougherara’s part, the higher perpound economic return of raspberries, compared to strawberries, makes the former a particularly intriguing option
for indoor fruit growers – assuming other barriers to production can be reduced. It’s hoped the commercial-scale MoFarm will be able to produce three or four raspberry crops through the duration of a calendar year.
The Weston Foundation has enabled the third phase of Bougherara and Campbell’s project, with $5 million in funding over the next three years. The investment, say the researchers, has been critical in enabling collaboration between different departments in a research institution comparatively less known for innovation in the agriculture sector.
There continue to be challenges, of course.
Managing the crop is going to require significant coordination and planning, says Bougherara, and continuous improvement – troubleshooting as problems arise – will be an ongoing reality.
“We learned a lot from the smaller problems we had with the prototype in the second phase of this project. Hopefully this continues and leads to a sustainable platform with minimum interventions required. We want to have something that’s viable for a couple years without any major issues,” she says.
Campbell highlights pest management in vertical farms as a major hurdle, in large part because no insecticides or fungicides are currently registered for use in vertical farm systems in Canada.
“We’ve had to learn a lot about biologicals, even soaps. In this pilot phase we’re gearing up to distribute product to the public. Part of the challenge is, how do we keep everyone safe, the bugs out, and fungal spores out?” •
As community gardens develop, so does interest in hardy apples.
BY TIMOTHY FOWLER
“It is a miracle!” my grandmother exclaimed. “These new apples are much better than the old ones—and from the same tree!”
That was the early 1980s in central Alberta and the Parkland apple had recently been released. Earl Beck, a neighbour of grandma’s was a nurseryman, and consulted grandma on what to do with this old apple tree that was severely damaged in a storm. That tree produced good jelly apples, but the fruit was wickedly tart – each bite induced facial contortions.
Earl pruned the tree aggressively and grafted Parkland apple stock onto that old tree. The apples produced in the following seasons were delicious and kept in the root cellar for weeks. The apples were firm, sweet-tart, excellent for eating right off the tree, and made outstanding pies and apple sauce.
Four decades later Dwayne Beck, Earl’s youngest son, is planting Parkland apples again, having taken his dad’s original five acres and expanded the nursery into a 500-acre commercial farming operation.
“We’ve just recently started growing apples again. Dad’s favorite past time was apple trees, but we quit growing apples in the early ‘90s to focus on other trees. There is a renewed interest in fruit trees.
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Now, we are often asked for fruit varieties because community gardens are proliferating, and people are doing more backyard gardening. Back in the ‘70s, three apples were released: Norland, Westland and the Parkland apple. Of course, Parkland was my dad’s favorite because it was a great apple, and it had the perfect name. When you talk to people that have grown those apples for a while, Parkland is the favorite out of the three—it’s a firm, crisp, sweet apple,” says Dwayne Beck.
All three of these apples will keep as long as eight weeks, if kept in the right environment – cool and dry.
The Parkland apple is extremely hardy, surviving very cold winters. Few hardy apples match its taste and quality. The Parkland was developed by crossing Melba and Rescue varieties at the Morden Research Station in Manitoba in 1979. The apple is so successful in tough growing conditions, it’s the leading commercial apple grown in Alaska.
Expect unpruned Parklands to grow five to six metres tall (16–20 feet) and four to six metres wide (13–20 feet). Pink-tinged white flowers in midspring will do better with cross-pollination from
The Parkland apple is extremely hardy, surviving very cold winters.
another apple variety within 500 feet for an optimal fruit set. These trees are rated to Canadian hardiness zone 2, tolerating temperatures to -46°C and show good resistance to drought, wind and late frosts. Trees prefer full sun, moderate watering in well-drained loamy soil (pH 6.0–7.0). As with most fruit trees, prune in late winter to preserve an open structure to help with light penetration and disease prevention. Trees bear fruit in three to five years and may live 50 years and beyond.
Out of those three varieties, Beck says the Parkland is the sweetest, but he and his crew are trying other varieties. There are several newer hardy apples that are suitable for hardiness zone 2 and 3. Falling within hardiness zone 2, Parkland Nurseries is testing some new hardy apple releases, and the Parkland is back in production.
Currently, they’re growing Prairie Magic (a crunchy-crisp apple), released from the University of Saskatchewan and Hardy MacIntosh Apples, developed in the early 1990s around Calgary, Alta. The Hardy MacIntosh is derived from John McIntosh’s original Mac established in 1811. This hardy Mac is perfect for growing on the Prairies, and it tastes very much like the
MacIntosh apples we’re all familiar with.
In addition to the Hardy MacIntosh or “Hardi-Mac”, Tam Andersen, owner of Prairie Gardens in Bon Accord, Alta. says, “There are three other apples derived from the original MacIntosh worth considering too. The Zee-Star, Fall Red and Treasure Red, a columnar version, are all worthy of consideration. The columnar is fascinating for people, because they’re always, especially in urban areas, looking for the perfect apple tree that only occupies a few square feet of their yard. These apples are all specifically bred for enhanced cold hardiness to suit prairie and northern climates like those in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.”
Prairie Gardens provides “U-Pick” opportunities for many of these apples so customers can sample apples before purchasing a tree for their fruit garden.
The Hardi-Mac is medium-sized (about 2.5 inches in diameter) with bright red skin. The flesh is white, crisp, juicy and aromatic, with a sweet-tart flavour that’s both milder and sweeter than the original MacIntosh. Apples ripen in mid-September, perfect for fresh eating, baking pies or making apple sauce. Apples will keep up to
eight weeks when stored properly in cool, dry environments. These apple trees are popular for home orchards, urban gardens and small-scale farming because of their suitability to prairie (cold) climates.
“We continue to see demand for fruit trees in community gardens in some city parks. There’s not a lot of nurseries that are growing apple trees, and we grow them to a 50–60 mil caliper, or approximately a 2.5-meter tree. These trees are being grown as a garden tree, not as ornamental type trees. So they are more of an open top, like you would see in an orchard,” says Beck.
What’s the future of hardy apples?
Canada has had a long relationship with hardy apples. Beck sees more people becoming more interested in where their food comes from – especially younger folks. They are asking what they can grow and supply themselves.
“We’re seeing a surge in people wanting to plant apple trees in their yards. Apple trees are smaller, too, not like an elm or something similar that would take up three times as much space. We have customers putting them in corners of their yards,” adds Beck. •
ModifiedAtmospherePackagingforFresh-cutFruits andVegetables provides comprehensive coverage of all aspects of modern MAP technologies for freshcut fruits and vegetables. Coverage begins with the general MAP concept and application by introducing the concept of MAP, how MAP works for fresh-cut produce and the benefits and shortfalls of MAP in its application. The book then discusses the basic aspects of MAP – packaging materials and machinery. In these sections, the book addresses not only the general information about MAP materials, but also supplies examples to introduce the new packaging films and their successful application in produce and fresh-cut fruits and vegetables. Unique chapters and sections in the book include relevant patents for MAP, commercial practices and MAP packaging machinery.
$300.50 | Item #0813812748
A.M.A. HORTICULTURE INC.
2011 Spinks Dr. Kingsville ON N9Y 2E5
Tel: 519-322-1397
Toll-Free: 800-338-1136
Fax: 519-322-1358
e-mail: ama@amahort.com www.amahort.com
X: x.com/amahort
Facebook: facebook.com/amahort
Description: A.M.A. Horticulture supplies commercial growers with high-quality greenhouse solutions including: containers, hydroponics and berry supplies, substrates, propagation supplies, Ellepots by A.M.A., greenhouse poly, fertilizers, irrigation supplies, cleaning machines, equipment and solutions for indoor organic growing. You can count on top quality solutions, friendly service and trusted expertise. We know that no two growers are alike. Everything from what, to how, to why you grow is unique to you and your operation. We start with your goals and challenges, and then work with you to find the right solutions. We tap into our team’s expertise and our global network of partners to source the solution you need to succeed – and create something new, just for you. A.M.A. is a proud member of the TERIS family. Together, let’s cultivate the future of horticulture.
AGROHAITAI LTD
1480 Sandhill Dr. Unit 9
Ancaster ON L0R 1T0
Tel: 905-648-9998
e-mail: sales@agrohaitai.com www.agrohaitai.com
Description: Haitai Seeds (AgroHaitai Ltd.) specialize in oriental vegetable seeds. We have been proudly supplying commercial growers, seed distributors and home gardeners worldwide since 2003.
AQUADRIP INC.
Tel: 416-875-8484
e-mail: nisma007@gmail.com
www.aquadripirrigation.com
Facebook: Aquadrip Inc.
Description: DRIP IRRIGATION. LOW VOLUME. HIGHT VOLUME AND FERTIGATION SOLUTIONS.
Unique knowledge integrating smart technologies for controllers an programmable fertilizers injection,
We incorporate weather stations and internet based controllers.
Our Agronomic consultancies are from farmer to farmer with endless experience in irrigation and plant growing process.
We calculate all your needs from your water source to your last emitter or sprinkler.
we supply, we train to instal in field or online.
Our post service is aways availale and we respond into one hour.
We make sure your irrigation will perform to your maximum satisfation.
105 Donly Dr. S., PO Box 530
Simcoe ON N3Y 4N5
Tel: 877-267-3473
e-mail: info@annexbookstore.com www.annexbookstore.com
Facebook: facebook.com/AnnexBookstore. ABM
Description: The Annex Bookstore provides education and training materials, books, texts, and other products to professionals across Canada, providing the information they need to train, operate, and successfully grow in their industry.
For orchards, open fields, greenhouses and all other applications.
AWSUM OUTCOMES (LWB ENTERPRISES)
P O Box 847, 60 Elmwood Ave
Crystal Beach, ON ON L0S 1B0
Tel: 905-380-0484
Toll-Free: 877-897-0484
e-mail: lbeverly@cogeco.ca
X: @WLbeverly
CANADA
510 - 28 Quarry Park Blvd SE Calgary AB T2C 4P5
Tel: 877-371-2273
e-mail: basf@basf-agsolutions.ca AgSolutions.ca/horticulture
X: @BASFAgSolutions
Description: The world is increasingly dependent on our ability to develop and maintain sustainable agriculture and healthy environments. At BASF, we work with farmers, agricultural professionals and industry experts to help make this possible. We connect innovative thinking and downto-earth action to create real world ideas that work – for farmers, society and the planet –and we’re proud to be able to offer a portfolio of products that give your horticulture crops excellent protection against weeds, disease and insects, keeping your crop thriving and healthy all season long.
42134 Hwy. 3
Wainfleet ON L0S 1V0
Tel: 905-899-3405
Toll-Free: 800-387-4713
Fax: 905-899-3507
e-mail: info@benberg.com bergequipment.ca
Facebook: facebook.com/BergEquipment
Description: We manufacture and distribute a line of soil handling equipment that has been designed to be compact, portable, and easy to use. Our portfolio includes a bale breaker, flat filler, conveyors, and soil mixers of various sizes, all with a portable design that do not need to be fixed in place.
We are also a full-line Kubota equipment dealership, offering compact tractors, utility vehicles, turf and construction equipment as well as implements and attachments.
Unit 42 - 2601 Matheson Blvd E Mississauga ON L4W 5A8
Tel: 905-458-1247
e-mail: kmenard@cccabox.org www.cccabox.org
3971 Old Walnut Rd, PO Box 429, Alvinston, ON, N0N 1A0
Alvinston ON N0N 1A0
Tel: 519-857-5363
Toll-Free: 800-353-3086
e-mail: solutions@cangrow.com cangrow.com biolinecorp.ca
X: @CangrowCrop @BiolineCorp
Description: CanGrow Crop Solutions has been manufacturing high-quality liquid fertilizers since 1986. CanGrow time-tested products are built on the founding principles of increasing nutrient efficiency & uptake, reducing plant stress, & improving soil health. We offer fluid starters, side-dress, foliars, micronutrients, biologicals & biostimulants for all applications including broadcast (stream/foliar), in-furrow, drip, fertigation. We service growers and retail partners throughout Eastern Canada from our Alvinston facility, located west of London. BioLiNE Corp is a technology innovator, focused on providing advanced, science-based solutions for sustainable crop production. BioLiNE Gold, our flagship product, is a superior fulvic acid with unparalleled performance & potency.
35 Morrow Road, Unit 10 + 11 BARRIE ON L4N3V7
Tel: 877-676-1914
e-mail: lynn@dominiongrimm.ca www.dominiongrimm.ca
Facebook: facebook.com/p/Dominion-GrimmInc-100057692393184
Description: We supply a vast variety of packaging products for the food industry from glass jars and bottles to plastic pails. We also manufacture equipment for the Maple Syrup Industry.
#905 - 185 The West Mall, Etobicoke ON M9C5L5
Tel: 158-581-5222
e-mail: info@ecoflaresolutions.com www.ecoflaresolutions.com
X: x.com/Ecoflareinc
Facebook: facebook.com/ecoflareinc
Description: EcoFlare Solutions Inc. operates within the Canadian Fresh Produce Market, EcoFlare introducing a cutting-edge fresh produce marketplace designed to revolutionize the Canadian fresh produce market. Ecoflare is a groundbreaking platform designed to connect Canadian fresh produce farmers and producers directly with both B2B and B2C customers. By bypassing intermediaries and bringing the producer and end-user closer in the transaction lifecycle, the platform ensures that producers receive fair compensation for their products while consumers benefit from lower prices. Our unique combination of range bound futures contracts, pre-order produce options, real-time data analytics, and mobile app integration sets us apart from competitors. EcoFlare aims to be the Alibaba for fresh produce. ECOFLARE is founded by: PIRACHA, Mohammad Waseem - CEO
KHAN, Kamran Ahmad - Business Services Manager
Seema Kalpathy Finance Manager
SYED, Naqi Abbas - Customer Relationship Manager
SINGH, KUSHWANT - SM
160a rue Saint-Patrice
Sherrington QC J0L2N0
Tel: 514-829-4966
e-mail: gverner@vegtech.ca vegtech.ca
Facebook: facebook.com/ EquipementsVegtech
Description: Vegtech designs and manufactures automated equipment for vegetable production, tailored to the realities of North American growers. Founded in Quebec, the company’s mission is to simplify field and packing operations, reduce labor dependency, and increase productivity. Our solutions include innovative transplanters such as the patented PLANTIS, specialized harvesters, box fillers and tippers, as well as conveyor and washing systems. Every project is developed in close collaboration with growers to meet their specific needs, whether for leafy greens, root vegetables, or specialty crops. Known for its innovative approach and strong integration capabilities, Vegtech supports growers of all sizes with durable, customized, and scalable solutions, helping modernize vegetable production across North America.
11012 Macleod Trail SE, Suite 405 CALGARY AB T2J 6A5
Tel: 403-479-4022
Toll-Free: 800-960-4318
e-mail: info@gowanco.com ca.gowanco.com
X: x.com/gowancanada
Facebook: facebook.com/gowancanada
Description: Gowan Canada is an affiliate of Gowan Company, a global, family-owned agricultural solutions business headquartered in Yuma, Arizona. Gowan Company specializes in the development, registration, and marketing of crop protection products, seeds, and fertilizers. In Canada we strive to provide effective solutions to some of farmers’ significant problems including herbicide resistant weeds.
148 Concession 6 Rd. East Millgrove ON L8B 1M4
Tel: 905-689-5466
e-mail: info@gcntrees.com www.grindstonecreeknursery.com
JOHNNY’S SELECTED SEEDS
955 Benton Ave.
Winslow ME 04901
Tel: 877-564-6697
Fax: 207-238-5375
e-mail: service@johnnyseeds.com www.johnnyseeds.com
Facebook: facebook.com/JohnnySeeds
Description: Johnny’s Selected Seeds is a privately held, employee-owned seed producer and merchant headquartered in Winslow, Maine, USA. Our mission is helping families, friends, and communities to feed one another by providing superior seeds, tools, information, and service. When you buy from Johnny’s, you can be confident that the seeds you are planting are fresh, vital, and of superior quality. We guarantee it. Our research farm is the heart of the company, where we trial thousands of seeds, tools, and supplies every year. It is here that Johnny’s carries out its mission to find and develop the best seeds and tools for farmers and gardeners. We also have an experienced service team dedicated to Canadian customers that is available year-round and ready to answer your questions, recommend products, solve problems, and ensure you get what you need. We’re here for you.
KOOLJET REFRIGERATION INC.
150 Adams Blvd.
Brantford ON N3S 7V2
Tel: 519-752-2424
Toll-Free: 866-748-7786
Fax: 519-752-4040
e-mail: info@kooljet.com
www.kooljet.com
X: x.com/KooljetR Facebook: facebook.com/kooljetrefrig
L & R SHELTERS
461 Hwy. 5
Dundas ON L9H 5E2
Tel: 905-627-1101
Toll-Free: 866-216-4113
Fax: 905-627-1109
e-mail: info@lrshelters.ca www.lrshelters.ca Facebook: facebook.com/LRShelters
3737 Netherby Rd.
Stevensville ON L0S 1S0
Tel: 905-382-2904
Fax: 905-382-4418
e-mail: info@naturalinsectcontrol.com.com www.naturalinsectcontrol.com
Description: Natural Insect Control (NIC) is the only CANADIAN producer of beneficial NEMATODES and a master distributor of beneficial insects. If you have an insect problem we have the solution. We are the experts on developing preventative bioprograms. Prevention is the key to successful crop yield & development. We can design a program specific to your growing needs, what ever they may be (greenhouse, field crop, hydroponic.)
NIC offers FRESH beneficial insects. Fresh means no storage, creating stronger, more resilient insects resulting in faster control & better reproduction capabilities.
Being the only nematode producer in Canada offers us the unique ability to create customized Nematode blends to target your particular pest.
Look to us for all your biologicals program needs.
NEUDORFF NORTH AMERICA
6761 Kirkpatrick Crescent Unit 4
Saanichton BC V8M 1Z8
Tel: 250-652-5888
e-mail: info@neudorff.ca www.neudorffpro.org X: x.com/neudorffpro Facebook: facebook.com/ neudorffnorthamerica
NORSECO
2914 boulevard Curé-Labelle, Laval Laval QC H7P 5R9
Tel: 514-332-2275
Toll-Free: 800-561-9693
Fax: 450-682-4959
e-mail: order@norseco.com norseco.com
Description: Founded in 1928 in Montreal, initially under the name W.H. Perron & Co. Ltd, NORSECO is now one of the most important vegetable and flower seeds, young plants and plugs distributors in Canada. Thanks to its team of experts in vegetable and ornamental horticulture and its modern and efficient infrastructure, NORSECO is able to commercialize top quality and innovative vegetable and flower varieties well adapted to local growing conditions. NORSECO’s strategy for pursuing excellence and leadership is by continuously realizing new commercial agreements with vegetable and ornamental plant breeders and horticultural companies around the world. The Commercial
division of NORSECO serves a clientele of professionals from across Canada through its representatives and commercial catalogues. The Mail Order division responds to home gardeners with the W.H. Perron mail order catalogue.
University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus, 120 Main St.
Ridgetown ON N0P 2C0
Tel: 519-674-2230
Toll-Free: 800-652-8573
e-mail: lvanma01@uoguelph.ca www.opep.ca
X: @ONspraysafety
173 Dr Bernie MacDonald Drive Bible Hill NS B6L 2H5
Tel: 902-678-7722
e-mail: info@perennia.ca www.perennia.ca
X: @nsperennia
Facebook: facebook.com/nsperennia
Description: Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation is a provincial development agency with the mission to support growth, transformation and economic development in Nova Scotia’s agriculture, seafood, and food and beverage sectors. We are Nova Scotia’s only technical development agency focused solely on our food sector and maximizing its value.
The Perennia team’s number one goal is helping food-related companies grow and take advantage of new opportunities locally, nationally and internationally. With agriculture production specialists with specialties covering horticulture, livestock, field crops and soils, Perennia offers a variety of services in the agriculture sector. These include consulting, field research, resources, training, events, funding programs, product development, quality & food safety, and Perennia Lab Services.
296 Collier Rd. S.
Thorold ON L2V 5B6
Tel: 905-688-4300
Toll-Free: 800-396-9238
e-mail: stokes@stokeseeds.com
www.stokeseeds.com
Description: Stokes Seeds® has been a premier seed supplier to vegetable producers since 1881. In addition to customer-focused, experienced sales professionals, Stokes Seeds offers one of the most comprehensive product lines in the industry. The Stokes Seeds territory managers and product development teams have spent the summer and fall reviewing new products. This commitment to matching the best product to a grower’s specific production needs helps maximize the yield, quality and profit potential of the crop.
2026 will bring another growing season of opportunities and challenges. As you make your crop and seed supply decisions, your Stokes Seeds territory manager is prepared to offer solutions to meet your production goals. Featuring an experienced sales team, exciting new varieties from world-class vendors and exceptional customer service, Stokes Seeds continues to be the seed supplier of choice for growers across Canada. To request a 2026 Commercial Growers Guide visit www. stokeseeds.com.
1250 St Johns Rd W
Simcoe ON N3Y 4K1
Tel: 519-426-3099
e-mail: styme@kwic.com
www.strawberrytyme.com
Description: CERTIFIED NURSERY STOCK
Supplier of certified bare root strawberry plants, raspberry canes, rhubarb and asparagus.
Available for spring planting. Shipping across Canada available.
8 3e Rang Ouest
St-Simon de Bagot QC J0H 1Y0
Tel: 438-350-6161
e-mail: contact@ca.timacagro.com www.timacagro.ca
X: x.com/TimacAgroCanada
Description: Timac Agro Canada is part of a family-owned company present in over 40 countries, dedicated to advancing specialty fertilizers and crop nutrition worldwide. As international leaders in biostimulant innovation since 1985, we provide fruit and vegetable growers across Canada with solutions that optimize nutrient efficiency, strengthen soils, and improve crop resilience. Our portfolio helps deliver higher-quality yields, improved profitability, and more sustainable production, backed by global research and a strong local team. With science-driven agronomic support, Timac Agro Canada is committed to helping growers achieve success today while protecting the future of Canadian agriculture.
TSLC
P.O. Box 22085
London ON N6A 6H8
Tel: 519-318-8314
e-mail: info@tslccanada.ca www.tslccanada.ca
1804 Edison St
Antigo WI 54409
Tel: 800-253-4737
Fax: 715-627-4871
e-mail: sales@wymasolutions.com www.wymasolutions.com
X: x.com/wymasolutions
Facebook: facebook.com/wymasolutions
Description: Wyma designs, manufactures, distributes and services post-harvest vegetable and fruit handling equipment and solutions worldwide. In America and Canada, Wyma Solutions is represented by the friendly team at Volm Companies. We recognize that each customer has different needs, different produce varieties and different scales of operation. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, our team configures and tailors post-harvest solutions to match your specific conditions and requirements. The Wyma team prides itself on offering full line solutions to customers. We focus on delivering customers a turn-key solution – it’s not just about individual pieces of equipment in the line, we provide integration equipment including support structures, conveyors, electrical integration and programming. Wyma is an award-winning manufacturer with a reputation for operational excellence, quality and innovative product design and manufacturing processes.
MACHINERY & ACCESSORIES
CULTIVATION
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
HARVEST EQUIPMENT
Équipements Vegtech
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
TILLERS
Berg Equipment
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
TRACTOR CABS
Berg Equipment
VEGETABLE TRANSPLANTERS
Équipements Vegtech
BIRD SCARING EQUIPMENT
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
FUNGICIDES
BASF Agricultural Solutions Canada Inc.
Gowan Canada
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Neudorff North America
HERBICIDES
BASF Agricultural Solutions Canada Inc.
Gowan Canada
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Neudorff North America
INSECTICIDES
BASF Agricultural Solutions Canada Inc.
Gowan Canada
Neudorff North America
INTEGRATED PEST CONTROL
Gowan Canada
Natural Insect Control (NIC)
PHEROMONE INSECT TRAPS
Natural Insect Control (NIC)
PRODUCE PROCESSING AND PACKAGING
BAGS
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
BASKETS
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
CONVEYORS
Berg Equipment
Équipements Vegtech
Wyma Solutions
FLATS & TRAYS
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
GRADERS & SIZERS
Équipements Vegtech
Wyma Solutions
LABELLING EQUIPMENT
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
PICKING CONTAINERS
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
SCALES
Équipements Vegtech
SORTING TABLES & ACCESSORIES
Équipements Vegtech
Wyma Solutions
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
BINS
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
BUILDINGS
L & R Shelters Inc
CONSULTANTS
Aquadrip Inc.
CROP PROTECTION
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Natural Insect Control (NIC)
Neudorff North America
EXCAVATION
Berg Equipment
FARM SAFETY/LABOUR AND COMPLIANCE
TSLC
FARMERS’ MARKETS
EcoFlare Solutions Inc.
Grindstone Creek Nursery Inc.
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
FERTILIZERS
CanGrow Crop Solutions/BioLiNE Corp
Timac Agro Canada
FROST PROTECTION
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
GREENHOUSE EQUIPMENT
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
IRRIGATION
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
Aquadrip Inc.
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
MAINTENANCE & REPAIR
Awsum Outcomes (LWB Enterprises)
Berg Equipment
MOWERS
Berg Equipment
MULCHES / SOIL MIXES
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
NURSERY & PLANT STOCK
Grindstone Creek Nursery Inc.
Strawberry Tyme Farms Inc
PEST CONTROL
Natural Insect Control (NIC)
Neudorff North America
Ontario Pesticide Education Program
POLLINATION
Natural Insect Control (NIC)
POTATO EQUIPMENT
Wyma Solutions
PRODUCE PROCESSING AND PACKAGING
Canadian Corrugated and Containerboard Association
PRUNING
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT
KoolJet Refrigeration Inc.
SEED/SEEDING EQUIPMENT
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Stokes Seeds Ltd.
SERVICES
Annex Bookstore
EcoFlare Solutions Inc.
Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation
SHADE/NETTING EQUIPMENT
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
SMALL TOOLS
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
SOIL TESTING
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
SPRAY EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
TRELLISING EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
SEED/SEEDING EQUIPMENT
HERB SEED
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Stokes Seeds Ltd.
POTATO SEED
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
SEEDING EQUIPMENT
A.M.A. Horticulture Inc.
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
VEGETABLE SEED
AgroHaitai Ltd
Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Norseco
Stokes Seeds Ltd.
AECI Plant Health Biocult
Corteva BiologicalsBio-Forge
Koppert Canada
Mode
Nutrient & water uptake
Nutrient & water uptake
On-seed application, in-furrow
In-furrow, seed-piece application
Root environment stimulation In-furrow
Mixing with seeds: 100 g/ha; granular: 4.5 kg/ha; liquid: 118 ml/ha Use non-chlorinated water
In-furrow or apply at cutting/planting of seed pieces
Compatible with AGTIV STIMULATE L Potato; remove filters <0.28 mm
Apply in the furrow, directly on seed pieces: 1,000 ml/haCompatible with AGTIV REACH Potato Pro-Cert approved input
Root environment stimulation On-seed application On-seed: from 15–70 ml/kg seeds
Promotes fertilizer breakdown to make applied and soil nutrients more available In-furrow (at planting) treated on phosphate-based fertilizers 1 L/1,000 kg
Stimulates root growth, reduces transplant shock, improves tolerance to adverse conditions In-furrow at planting or as seeding dip at transplant. 0.2 L/ac
Improved root function, water and nutrient use efficiency, crop resiliency
Supports physical stress recovery
Soil or root applied
Early in season as a seed treatment, in-furrow, bare root, transplant treatment or as a soil drench
Rate: 250–500 ml/ac at herbicide timing or for treatment of physical damage
Improves nutrient uptake & water holding capacity In-furrow (at planting) In-furrow at planting: 1.89–15 L/ac
Nematodes enter pest & release symbiotic bacteria; bacteria convert tissue into food source on which nematodes feed, develop & reproduce inside host
FRAC 19
Chitin synthesis inhibitor
Airblast sprayer, vehicle-mounted spray unit, backpack sprayer or sprinkler system
Foliar
BM02; multisite; antimicrobial metabolites, membrane disruptor, SAR Foliar, soil applied
Spore dehydration, stimulate plant basal defences, trigger production of oxidizers (antiseptics) Foliar
Plant growth promoter
Timing and frequency depend on the pest species & crop environment (relative humidity, soil moisture & temperature)
Compatible with AGTIV REACH
Most crop input compatible but recommend to use solo or with a growth promoting biostimulant for added benefit
Extensive tank-mix compatibility
Compatible with other seed-placed products
Check manufacturer's compatability guide
Compatible as a rotation partner applied at any crop stageCompatible with most crop inputs and BCAs
Compatible as a rotation partner applied at any crop stage
Preventative application with re-application interval of 7–14 days
Seed treatment, foliar Foliar: 125–250 ml/ac; may be applied as a broadcast spray or band application; seed treatment: 65 ml/100 lb. of seed
Improves heat and water stress tolerance, adds a physical silicon barrier & increases crop quality parameters Foliar At vegetative growth stage, prebloom, post bloom, fruit fill
Enhances seed germination, fruit set, rooting, cell division/expansion Foliar, seed or root applied A root drench with microbial inoculants, foliar applications at bloom and every 14 days
FRAC P06 Systemic acquired resistance Foliar
FRAC Group BM02
Surface applications, transplant drench, in-furrow applications, shanked-in & injected applications, post-planting applications at any crop stage
Compatible as a rotation partner applied prior to the onset of disease on a 14-day interval
0.5–2.8 L/ha (200–1,120 ml/ac); recommended rate of 379 ml/ac in potatoes
Compatible as a tank mix partner with the exception of antibiotics and H2O2
Compatible with most pesticides and fertility products; not all mixtures have been tested – a small jar test is recommended before application PMRA, EcoCert, OMRI, CERES
Extensive tank-mix compatibility
Compatible with most crop inputs; do jar test; tank mix should be alkaline pH for best performance
Compatible with most crop inputs EcoCert
Compatible as a tank mix partner with the exception of antibiotics and H2O2 EcoCert
0.5–2.8 L/ha (200–1,120 ml/ac); recommended rate of 379 ml/ac in potatoes OMRI
Manufacturer Product Name Category / Product Type Class
UPL AgroSolutions Canada OHM Biostimulant Aquatic plant extract
Crops Active Microorganisms/ Ingredients Format i
Root and tuber vegetables including but not limited to potato (russet, reds, whites, yellows and purples), carrot, radish and sweet potato
Cucurbit vegetables, fruiting vegetables
Leafy vegetables
Sugar beet
Pome fruit, stone fruit
Bushberry, caneberry
Corn (including field corn, sweet corn & popcorn) Grapes Strawberry
Ascophyllum nodosm (97.52%) Liquid
Koppert Canada Quad Pollination Bumblebee
Loveland Products Canada Radiate Biostimulant Plant growth hormone
Bayer Crop ScienceSerenade OPTIBiological fungicide
impatiens
crops Cytokinin; auxins (indole-3-butyric acid (IBA)) Liquid
Corteva BiologicalsSugar Mover Premier Biostimulant
growth hormones, plant growth regulator, yield stimulant Fruit & vegetables Plant hormone: cytokinin; co-formulated with: boron, copper, molybdenum Liquid Biologicals by FMCTaegro 2
STK Bio Ag TechnologiesTimorex Gold Biopesticide Biofungicide
Koppert Canada Trianum-P Biofungicide Fungus Bulb, leafy, brassica, fruiting & cucurbit vegetables, carrots
Corteva BiologicalsUtrisha NBiostimulant, biofertilizer
Corteva Biologicals X-Cyte Biostimulant
XiteBio Tuber+
XiteBio Technologies Inc.
from Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree)
Trichoderma harzianum strain T22 Powder
Methylobacterium, nutrient increase Fruit & vegetables Bacteria: Methylobacterium symbioticum SB23 Wettable powder
Plant growth hormones, plant growth regulator, yield stimulant Apple, asparagus, carrot, grapes, peaches, potato, strawberries, tomatoes Plant hormone: cytokinin Liquid
Tuber crops (potato, sugar beet, etc.)
Microbial inoculant PGPR inoculant
Bacillus firmus Liquid XiteBio Vegi+
Yara CanadaYaraAmplix OPTITRAC
Vegetables (tomato, pepper, cauliflower, onion, cucumber, carrot, navy bean, etc.)
Biostimulant Seaweed extracts All crops
Ascophyllum nodosum components (alginate, fucoidan, mannitol, phlorotannins, amino acids, etc.), organic acids, vitamins & nutrients Concentrated liquid
Yara Canada YaraAmplix PROCOTE OPTIMIZE Biostimulant Humic substance All crops Humic acid Liquid
Yara CanadaYaraAmplix NRHIZO
Biostimulant Seaweed extracts Legumes
Ascophyllum nodosum components (alginate, fucoidan, mannitol, phlorotannins, amino acids, etc.), organic acids, vitamins & nutrients Concentrated liquid
Improves nutrient use efficiency, enhances reproductive traits & mitigates abiotic stressors
Foliar application
Two applications: Apply 1 L/ha (0.4 L/ac) at tuber initiation & repeat application 15 days later
Multiple applications: Apply at first flower & repeat applications at 7- to 14-day intervals until harvest
Three applications: Apply at 4 to 5-leaf stage & repeat at 7- to 14-day intervals
Two applications: Apply 1 L/ha (0.4 L/ac) at 8- to 10-leaf & repeat 14 to 21 days later
Two applications: Apply 1.5 L/ha after fruit set & repeat 7 to 10 days later; a third application can be applied to the tree post-harvest
Two applications: Apply 1 L/ha to recently formed fruit & repeat 7 to 10 days later; a third application may be made to the bush post-harvest at 1 L/ha
One to two applications: Apply 1 L/ha (0.4 L/ac) at 4 leaf (V4) to tassel (VT) growth stages
Multiple applications; see the label for timing by grape type
Multiple applications: Apply 1 L/ha within 14 days of transplant, at first bloom, 14 to 21 days later; repeat applications every 14 to 21 days
Compatible with most pesticides provided they are used in accordance with the registered label directions; some compatibility problems may occur with alkaline mixtures (lime, sulphur) & with spreader stickers containing ethanol or liquid fertilizers containing orthophosphates; a jar test is recommended to ensure compatibility before spraying
FRAC Group BM02
Ground or aerial application
at planting (potatoes) at 90 ml/ac; foliar (2–6 leaf stage) all crops at 60 ml/ac
Refer to product label for specific application rates and recommendations for each crop or Crop Group
Physical barrier, nutrient competition, fungicidal metabolites Foliar, in-furrow See label for individual rates and recommendations
Plant growth regulator and yield stimulant Foliar
Rate: 500 ml to 1 L/ac
Antibiosis, competition, induced resistance Soil drench, foliar spray PHI:
FRAC BM01: Cell membrane disruptor and SAR Foliar Ideal as a rotation partner and prior to harvest with no residues
Beneficial fungus competes for space and nutrients; acts as a mycoparasite by producing enzymes which break down hyphae of plant pathogenic fungi
Airblast sprayer, vehicle-mounted spray unit, backpack sprayer or sprinkler system
Start application preventively at sowing or soon after planting of the crop
Plant growth promoting methylobacterium Foliar Rate: 135 g/ac (40 ac/bag)
stress mitigation Foliar
ml/ac; apply prior to the onset of heat event
Tank mix compatible with herbicides
Talk to a BASF representative for information on tank mixing
Extensive tank-mix compatibility
Check manufacturer's compatability guide
Use water with total chlorine content <2 ppm; use water with pH between five and eight; consult the supported tank mix document available for further details
Phosphorus solubilization, phytohormone production, siderophore production In-furrow (at planting), foliar (0-6 leaf stage) In-furrow at planting, foliar (0-6 leaf stage); see compatibility chart Check manufacturer’s compatability guide
Alleviates metabolic stress; enhances plant greenness & flowering Foliar application
crops 0.2–0.8 L/ac; one to two applications every 10–14 days at early vegetative stage Check manufacturer's compatability guide Mobilizes applied phosphorus in soil Fertilizer coating Coat phosphorous fertilizer (blend) at 2 L/1,000 kgCheck manufacturer's compatability guide
fixation and nodulation
The next frontier in food and beverage innovation.
BY PERENNIA’S PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT TEAM
Aprotein shake that keeps its nutrients for an extended period of time. A probiotic snack that delivers live cultures to your gut. A strawberry that tastes freshly picked after six months on a shelf. What once sounded like astronaut rations are now edging into the mainstream. The enabler? Freeze-drying is emerging as the food and beverage industry’s most powerful tool for preserving nutrition, extending shelf life and meeting the high protein demands of today’s consumers.
Freeze-drying (lyophilization) removes water by freezing food and then sublimating the ice under vacuum. Unlike conventional drying, it avoids high heat and preserves structure, flavour, aroma and nutrients. The technique has long been associated with pharmaceuticals and specialty coffee but the technology is now being pushed into functional beverages, nutrient-dense foods and premium snacks. For brands, the appeal is simple: a process that extends shelf life without preservatives, locks in nutrition and creates new textures and formats.
Modern freeze-drying no longer relies on long, rigid cycles. Advanced temperature and moisture sensors now measure bound water in real time, letting operators adapt conditions on the fly. Robotics automate the loading and unloading of trays, reducing contamination risk and labour costs. The industry is also embracing modular “micro-plants,” small units that can be scaled out regionally rather than investing in one massive dryer. That flexibility is crucial for companies experimenting with smaller batches of functional foods, protein powders or probiotic snacks.
or infrared finishing. The hybrid model keeps freeze-drying’s gentle preservation at the start, then accelerates the final moisture removal. This reduces cycle time and cost, making it more feasible to use for mainstream products. For functional beverages and high-protein powders, hybrid systems promise consistent quality at price points competitive with conventional processing.
One of the biggest consumer drivers in 2025–2026 is nutrientdense, protein-rich food, fueled partly by the surge of GLP-1 medications and lifestyle shifts toward high-protein diets. Freezedrying is uniquely suited for protein integrity since the gentle, low-temperature drying preserves protein structure and solubility better than heat-based methods. By removing water naturally, this increases nutrient density per gram, allowing smaller portion sizes with higher functional value. Freeze-drying is especially effective for protecting probiotics, peptides and antioxidants critical for functional beverages and supplemented products.
The freeze-drying process can have high energy costs since it’s more power-hungry than alternatives – though hybrid systems and renewables help. There is also the capital cost – large units are expensive, but modular plants lower the entry barrier. Faster cycles can risk nutrients or texture loss. Finally, consumer perception comes into play – marketing must emphasize nutrition and premium positioning, not just camping rations.
Freeze-drying is powerful but it’s energy-intensive and timeconsuming. Innovators are tackling this by combining it with complementary technologies like vacuum microwave
ABOVE
By 2026, freeze-drying is expected to expand beyond niche categories into core portfolios. Functional snacks and beverages will lead, but hybrid applications combining freeze-drying with fermentation or bioactive fortification could define the next wave. For an industry under pressure to deliver shelf-stable, nutrientdense and clean-label products, freeze-drying offers more than preservation. It offers reinvention. •
Freeze-drying is emerging as a powerful tool for preserving nutrition and extending shelf life.
These exceptional students are the winners of the 2025 CABEF Scholarships. We are proud to support each of them with $2,500 for their ag-related post-secondary education.
Help us empower more students to pursue diverse careers in agri-food. Strengthen the future of Canadian agriculture and food by investing in the cream of the crop.
Become a Champion of CABEF and directly support a scholarship for a Canadian student.
Congratulations to this year’s CABEF scholarship recipients.
Leah Newcombe
Cambridge, NS Allison Morse Hatley, QC
Abbigail Mettler
Wallenstein, ON
Messina Schrof Starbuck, MB
Morgan Debenham Kennedy, SK
Colby Scott Hanna, AB
Contact CABEF today to learn how you can become a “Champion of CABEF” at info@cabef.org
