Fruit & Vine Issue 15 July/August 2025

✓

✓

• Multi-spectral data capture and AI crop health analysis reports

• Prescription treatment mapping for use with existing equipment

• Aerial spray application of seaweed and other biofertilisers*

• Anti-frost product application

Advanced agronomy

Digital

You have a question, we have the answer

TerraMap

Healthy Soils

• Soil improvement strategies

Agroecology

• Tools in Omnia to ease every decision

• The most accurate soil mapping system

Farm Business Consultancy

Environmental Services

Farm Business Consultancy

• Maximise business performance

Agroecology Services

Soil Mapping

Carbon Services

• Benefit from schemes and advice

• Understand and manage your farm’s Carbon Varieties

• Nursery Stock and varieties for your situation

Nutrition

• Practical, sustainable farming techniques

• Optimise for yield and performance

Out & About

Understanding microbial biofungicides and their uses 22 35 40 08 06 42 54 11 44 24 19 29 33 16 27

Grower pro le

The Haywoods chat about one of the UK's oldest commercial vineyards

Professional advice

Finding the right wine sales routes for your wine estate's growth

Professional advice

Where to begin when considering contract winemaking services

Technical advice

Top ve tips to transition to regenerative viticulture

In the know

Q&A with top fruit technical consultant Jeremy Linsell

Find out how a foam-based product could win the battle against late frost

News

The latest FETF announcement and a Norfolk-based event update News

Machinery

Advice on preparing your vineyard for mechanisation

Show preview

Fruit Focus 2025 – what to expect this July

Grower pro le

We interview David Trehane of Dorset Blueberry Company

Special report

Experts share insights into consumer behaviour, challenges and varieties

Agronomy

Summer management to maintain healthy orchards and vineyards

Agronomy

Special report

Shining a light on the blackcurrant market and growing considerations

Agronomy

Practical guide to growing grapes for still red wine in the UK

Fruit & Vine reporter Daniel Hodge (left) and marketing manager Patrick Over (right) are pictured with Frosco owner George Klat following a demo of the innovative foam-based product. Read more on page 6

www.fruitandvine.co.uk

Directors

Editorial

Managing director

Julie Goulding julie@fruitandvine.co.uk

Director

Greg Goulding greg@fruitandvine.co.uk

Editor

Rachel Hicks rachel@fruitandvine.co.uk

Deputy editor Sarah Kidby hello@fruitandvine.co.uk

Machinery reporter Daniel Hodge hello@fruitandvine.co.uk

Advertising

Sales director Zohra Mitchell zohra@fruitandvine.co.uk

Fruit & Vine specialist

Samantha Wilson sam@fruitandvine.co.uk

Sales executive William Taylor hello@fruitandvine.co.uk

Design & Production Production manager Martyn Smith hello@fruitandvine.co.uk

The foam innovation turning heads A frosty foe:

At Denbies Wine Estate, Fruit & Vine witnessed the latest innovation in the ght against frost. The unlikely weapon? Foam.

Daniel Hodge reports.

The man behind Frosco, George Klat, has been working on farms since he was 17 and brings a background in natural sciences to his latest innovation – a frost protection foam that’s drawing interest from across the viticulture and

The foam has a thick, shaving cream-like consistency

horticulture sectors. At a recent demonstration at Denbies Wine Estate, George gathered an audience to show exactly what this foam can do.

The night before, a crisp frost had settled over the rows of vines, o ering George his rst real chance of the season to test the foam’s protective qualities in situ. It was, as George put it, “perfect timing”. The foam had been applied the day before, and by the next afternoon, when we had a chance to view it, it was still clinging to the vines with impressive coverage.

Data backed results

Headline stats from the night con rm the foam’s performance: Denbies experienced over six hours of sub-zero temperatures, hitting a low of -3.7°C. Despite this, the foam maintained a consistent 0°C on the buds – clear evidence of the latent heat e ect in action. “This is exactly what we expect,” George explained. “We’ve tested the foam internally down to -20°C and routinely see 3–4 hours of protection, depending on formulation strength.

“It’s the rst proper frost of the year here, so it’s been a real opportunity to gather data,”

George explained as he welcomed attendees and prepared for a live demonstration of the foam application.

The birth of the foam

The inspiration for the foam came from an unexpected source – snow. George was struck by how a simple snowfall insulated his carrots, keeping them warmer than the surrounding air. He began to consider how a similar insulating e ect could be harnessed for crops vulnerable to spring frosts.

However, aqueous foams – like those used in re ghting or as insulators – have their limitations. Water in liquid form is thermally conductive, and rather than protecting, could exacerbate frost damage by drawing more heat away from plant tissues. The challenge was to develop a formulation that could insulate without this risk.

George’s solution was to create a foam that when applied not only provides insulation but –crucially – releases latent heat when temperatures drop to freezing. “It works in two ways,” said one of George’s collaborators, Digital Union’s director Sam Eastall. “It insulates, and when it gets cold enough, it actually crystallises and releases heat –just like a sprinkler system, but without the water runo or freezing issues.”

A live demonstration

The foam comes in a concentrated form, is used

at one part concentrate to nine parts water, and is applied using a custom sprayer powered by a portable compressor. The resulting foam has a thick, shaving cream-like consistency and clings to vines with minimal drip or runo .

As a tractor pulled a trailer slowly between vines, two people followed with spraying wands, covering the vines in a generous coating. The result was rows of grapevines wrapped in white, frothy coats, as if dusted by snow.

Attendees were invited to get up close, feel the texture, and observe how it behaved in realworld conditions. “Seeing is believing,” George said. “We’re giving out samples for people to try in their freezers at home – they'll get to witness its properties rst-hand.”

V3 and beyond

George is currently trialling both version two and version three of the foam, with V3 described as “weatherproof”. This iteration forms a leathery skin under sunlight and wind exposure, helping to retain the moist, insulating layer underneath.

Outside the vineyard world, there’s growing interest among beet growers. George is already collaborating with the Nordic Beet Research Foundation, where trials have received praise for the foam’s performance and appreciation for its potential to reduce reliance on single-use plastics.

Further a eld, promising lab and eld studies are nearing publication as part of a Canadian government-backed project. In the UK, George is pursuing Innovate UK grants with leading institutions and farms to produce peer-reviewed research into the foam’s e cacy and safety – and is actively looking for more partners to join the next phase of trials.

Still, challenges remain. “The hardest part hasn’t been the formulation of the foam itself –it’s the applicator,” George admitted. Maintaining consistent, timely application is a hurdle he’s actively trying to overcome.

Industry reaction

Feedback from industry members at the event was mixed but constructive. Nick Wenman, owner of the organic Albury Vineyard, acknowledged the appeal of an organic-friendly frost solution but raised concerns about safety, especially when members of the public – including children – are present. “Is it something they can touch or even accidentally ingest?” he asked. “It’s a great concept, but I need to know it’s safe.”

Nick also raised the issue of time and labour. Lighting bougie candles across his vineyard is a labour-intensive task he’s eager to avoid. “My knees can’t take it anymore,” he joked. “But how long would spraying the foam take, and how much would it cost?”

John MacRae-Brown, head gardener at Chilworth Manor Vineyard, echoed similar thoughts and added: “Give me more data, prove its safety, and if I can use it with my existing sprayer, then yes – I’d absolutely consider it.”

George is well aware of these concerns. “That’s exactly why we’re doing these demos,” he said. “To show people what this foam can do, and to give them the evidence they need to get behind it.” In response to comments on safety, George pointed to the product’s credentials. “We completed a research project with researchers at Imperial College London to con rm biocompatibility of the foam. Plus, we’ve submitted our Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which con rms the foam is non-

hazardous,” he said. “We’re also in discussions with the Soil Association and expect a decision on organic certi cation within the next fortnight. After that, we’ll be pursuing biodynamic certi cation too.”

A broader vision

Though the foam is still in its early days, its potential is being recognised beyond UK borders. “You’d be surprised how many regions, even in warmer climates, su er from snap frosts,” George said. He’s already planning international trials in the likes of Canada and Australia, and hopes to expand into large-scale horticultural and viticultural use in the coming years.

“This is just the beginning,” he said. “But if we can protect crops better, more sustainably, and with less environmental impact – then it’s a future worth investing in.”

For more information, visit https://frosco.io

Innovator George Klat demonstrating the novel Frosco foam at Denbies Wine Estate

Frosco have been working hard on application techniques for the foam

Nick Wenman, owner of Albury Vineyard and John MacRae-Brown, head gardener at Chilworth Manor Vineyard

Norfolk Wine & Cheese Royal Norfolk Show to host Experience

The organisers of the Royal Norfolk Show have announced the Norfolk Wine & Cheese Experience at this year’s event.

It will be held in the welcoming Adnams Food and Drink Experience area at the Royal Norfolk Show where, say the organisers, you’ll be able sip, savour, and discover.

Attendees can delight in a handpicked selection of exceptional wines and mouth-

watering cheeses crafted by 10 of Norfolk’s nest producers, including: Chet Valley Vineyard, Fen Farm Dairy, Burn Valley Vineyard, Wilton Farm, Flint Vineyard, Mrs Temple’s Cheese, Cobble Hill Vineyard, Norton’s Dairy, Winbirri Vineyard, and The Goat Shed.

FETF grants

announced for horticulture

Apply now for the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF), with 10 items available for orchards and vineyards.

The government has announced details of the much-awaited latest round of FETF funding, with £46.7M available to help farmers with three types of grant to invest in day-to-day equipment to boost productivity, manage slurry or improve animal health and welfare. Grants of between £1,000 and £25,000 are available for each grant theme.

Ten items for orchards and vineyards are eligible for funding under the productivity theme of the FETF. The eligible items are:

• Electronic tray lling machine

• Tractor mounted ail mulcher for orchards and vineyards (large)

• Remote substrate sensors with datalogger

• Tractor mounted sensor for precision orchard management

• Plug transplanting machine

• Front mounted orchard pruner

• Drone for spraying whitewash on to glasshouses

• Intra row weeders 1.8m

• Inter row hoe 3m

• Inter row hoe 6m.

A range of other equipment is available under the productivity theme, such as water and irrigation equipment, including digital weather stations and

eld drain cleaners; as well as forestry, grassland and arable equipment. Minister for food security and rural a airs Daniel Zeichner said: “Equipment and technology help drive farming forward and we will work with investors to fund more resilient, sustainable farms boosting pro tability, productivity and food security. This is the Plan for Change in

As visitors indulge, selected representatives will take them on a journey through the rich history and fascinating stories behind some of the region’s most beloved wines and cheeses.

“I am thrilled to be supporting the Norfolk Wine & Cheese Experience at the Royal Norfolk Show, which is a great opportunity to showcase the tremendous wines and stunning cheeses which are being produced in our county,” commented Andy Newman, of Newman Associates PR. “I believe passionately that we need to shout more loudly about the amazing food and drink which is made in Norfolk, and placing the county’s wine and cheese centre-stage at Norfolk’s biggest event is an excellent way of doing just that.”

Mark Nicholas, RNAA managing director, said: “The Show will provide a unique focus on local food and drink and those who produce our food, as well as celebrate the best of Norfolk and the many organisations and businesses which contribute so much to our county. Norfolk is rightly proud of its produce and we look forward to showcasing some of the region’s best producers over 25–26th June 2025.”

For more details about how to book your place at one of the tutored wine and cheese tasting sessions being held at this year’s Royal Norfolk Show visit: https://royalnorfolkshow.co.uk/norfolkwine-and-cheese-experience/

Event details:

Date: 25–26th June

Location: Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, Costessey NR5 0TT

action and these grants will help provide our farmers with the equipment necessary to adapt, compete, and grow no matter what challenges lie ahead.”

You can apply for a grant if your business is based and registered in England and you’re a farmer, horticulturalist, forestry owner or contractor carrying out services to farmers, horticulturalists or forestry owners. Only one application can be submitted for each theme, and the success of applications will depend on the score your application achieves and the number and value of applications received by the Rural Payments Agency.

The FETF is open to applications from 29th May until 10th July. For the full list of eligible items, criteria, and how to apply, visit: www.gov.uk/ government/publications/farming-equipmentand-technology-fund-2025

ORCHARD AND VINEYARD SPRAYERS

KUHN offers a wide variety of orchard and vineyard sprayers with tank capacities ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 L. Choose between front or rear suction, round fan or V fan, along with an array of other options.

ANTIS 2 GEO 2

Preparing your vineyard for mechanisation

The UK’s growing wine industry faces a critical challenge –labour shortages and rising costs are pushing growers to consider mechanisation as a solution. Daniel Hodge writes.

Mechanising vineyard tasks – from pruning to bud rubbing to harvest – can help deliver consistency, timeliness and cost savings, allowing operations to stay viable. Globally, winegrowers are increasingly turning to machines to handle vineyards with fewer workers, performing tasks more e ciently. Yet, mechanisation is not just a simple x; it requires careful planning and well-thought-out infrastructure. The goal is to reduce manual labour without compromising on quality, which means designing or adapting vineyards so machines can operate e ectively and e ciently. Whether you’re establishing a new vineyard or retro tting an existing one, thinking ahead about mechanisation will pay dividends in labour savings, consistency of operations, and long-term e ciency.

Is your vineyard mechanisation-ready?

Not every vineyard can be easily mechanised. Before investing in equipment, evaluate whether your site and setup are suitable:

• Terrain and soil – Steep slopes can be dangerous for tractors or harvesters – grades above ~15% are generally too steep for safe mechanised operations, whilst slopes of 3–5% are manageable and still allow cold air drainage. Good soil drainage is essential, as

mechanised tasks can increase soil compaction and compacted or waterlogged soils can a ect yields and reduce e ciency. Installing drainage systems and using cover crops to enhance soil structure may be necessary. Shifting toward low-compaction equipment and/or using low-ground-pressure tyres or crawler tracks, and subsoiling compacted areas can protect your vineyard’s productivity as mechanisation increases

• Row spacing and layout – Row width must suit your equipment. While some straddle tractors can work in rows as narrow as 1.2m, most vineyard tractors and implements require 1.8m or more. Straight evenly spaced rows aid e ciency. Headlands – the space at row ends for turning – should be 10–12m wide to accommodate machinery. Narrower headlands or obstacles like trees and posts can hinder operations. Long, uninterrupted rows reduce the frequency of turns and increase operational e ciency

• Trellising and canopy structure – Trellis strength and design determine whether machines can perform tasks like trimming or harvesting. Vertical shoot positioned (VSP) or single-curtain cordon systems are best.

Trellises must be sturdy, with taut wires and robust end-post assemblies. Metal posts are often preferred over wooden or concrete alternatives, especially when using harvesters, which generate signi cant vibration. Vines planted unevenly or with irregular gaps can confuse machines and reduce performance, so uniformity is key

• Vineyard size and economics –Mechanisation of a vineyard becomes more viable as size increases, given the cost of equipment. For smaller vineyards, sharing or contracting machinery is a cost-e ective option. Starting with versatile attachments for an existing tractor, such as sprayers or trimmers, can ease the transition without heavy capital investment. Always calculate the total cost of new machinery or equipment, including fuel, maintenance, and training against potential labour savings

• Skilled labour and training – While mechanisation reduces manual labour, it increases the need for skilled operators. Tractors, pruners, harvesters, and sprayers all require careful handling to avoid damaging vines or underperforming. Training is essential, and investing in experienced operators or upskilling your current team goes hand-inhand with investing in the equipment. In short, a vineyard is 'ready' for mechanisation when both its physical setup and its people are prepared for the change.

Not all terrain is suitable for mechanisation –some slopes may be too steep

The Provitis leaf stripper gently draws excess foliage using a vacuum, avoiding damage to the grapes

Sprayers such as the Kuhn Geo 2 offer high air volume performance

Now that we’ve covered site, trellis, layout, and economics of vineyard mechanisation, you should be able to more easily identify which aspects of your operation are mechanisation-friendly and which may need adjustments. Next, we’ll take a look at speci c vineyard operations that can be mechanised, and what infrastructure changes each may require.

Mechanisable operations and requirements

Many vineyard tasks can be mechanised with the right equipment and vineyard con guration. Below we break down key harvesting operations – from soil management to harvesting – and discuss how that can be done by machine, what infrastructure is needed, and what to consider when adopting mechanical methods.

1. Trellising

The trellis is a critical interface between vines and machinery. It has to support consistent canopy structure while withstanding mechanical force during pruning, trimming, spraying, and harvesting. Mechanised vineyards require uniformity, strength and a training system that matches tool geometry.

According to VineWorks’ business director Chris Buckley: “If you’re thinking about introducing machinery to your vineyard, your trellis system needs to be ready to take the load – quite literally.” His key recommendations include:

• Durability matters – Hot-dipped galvanised metal posts (1.5mm for intermediate posts, 2.5mm for end posts) can handle small knocks from machinery

• Keep it level – Consistent post height helps prevent accidents and makes mechanical

An example of a drip irrigation system

passes smoother

• Wire tension is key – Tight wires maintain canopy shape and stability, enabling e cient use of leaf strippers and trimmers

• Strong end assemblies – Good anchors keep the system together during high-load activities like pre-pruning or harvesting.

Infrastructure preparations: Metal trellising with braced end posts, uniform wire height, tight wires, a training system compatible with machinery (e.g. VSP or cordon), and row spacing wide enough for tractor access.

2. Canopy management

From pruning to shoot thinning, many canopy tasks can be partially or fully mechanised.

• Winter pruning – Pre-pruners and canepulling machines reduce labour but require simple, linear trellis systems

• Bud rubbing and shoot thinning – Rotating bars or sucker removers can clean trunks. Vines must be uniformly trained

• Shoot tucking and wire lifting – Systems like Provitis can lift catch wires and secure shoots, though twine management adds labour

• Leaf removal and trimming – Mechanical removers and trimmers can perform 80–90% of canopy management if the trellis canopy is uniform. Machines are e cient but nonselective, often requiring manual touch-ups

Infrastructure preparations: VSP or cordon trellising, consistent canopy height, strong posts, twine disposal plans.

3. Weed, pest and disease control

Spraying can be fully mechanised using tractormounted sprayers:

• Air-blast and tunnel sprayers ensure even coverage and allow fast application during dry windows

• Under-vine sprayers or mechanical weeders o er chemical and non-chemical options

• Sensor-guided sprayers (LiDAR or ultrasonic) reduce waste by adjusting spray output to canopy density

• Precision tools are increasingly being used to reduce chemical waste and improve application accuracy. “Airblast spraying is prone to signi cant issues like drift, overspray, compaction. Cordon’s loop real-time mixer integrates seamlessly with existing sprayers, allowing farmers to control what they spray and where, reducing waste by enabling real-

time tank mixing,” says Cordon Technologies’ CEO, Jamie Hutchinson, Infrastructure preparations: Wide rows and headlands, reliable water supply, trained operators, tractors with hydraulic/PTO capabilities.

4. Irrigation and fertilisation

Though not yet widespread in British vineyards, drip irrigation is gaining traction, especially on free-draining soils.

• Drip systems – Deliver water directly to vines, often mounted on trellises to avoid machine damage

• Fertigation – Allows nutrient dosing through the same system

• Automation – Timers or moisture sensors enable precise scheduling, sometimes integrating frost protection.

Infrastructure preparations: Reliable water source, pumps, lters, drip lines, automated controllers, and protected pipe placement.

5. Harvesting

Mechanical harvesters can reduce harvest labour from a large crew to a single operator, but require:

• Straight rows (2–3m wide) – Most selfpropelled or towed harvesters straddle the vine row and need consistent spacing to operate safely

• Upright canopies (VSP) – Vertically trained canopies present fruit in a uniform zone that harvesters can target

• Strong trellises with reinforced posts and tensioned wires – Harvesters apply signi cant lateral and vertical forces when shaking the canopy

• Flat or gently sloping terrain – Most modern harvesters can operate on slight gradients, but steep slopes risk rollover or uneven picking

• Consistent fruiting zone height – To maximise picking e ciency, the fruiting zone should align with the harvester’s shaking and collection head.

Contract harvesting is increasingly available for smaller British vineyards. Modern machines o er gentler handling and integrated sorting systems, reducing quality concerns. If retro tting, you may need to adjust trellis height, replace weak posts, or widen alleys.

independently of the main chassis to accurately follow vine rows

Infrastructure preparations: Access for harvesters, sturdy trellising, winery capacity for rapid processing, su cient bins or trailers.

6. Monitoring and data collection

Mechanised vineyards bene t signi cantly from precision monitoring tools that guide decisionmaking and optimise equipment use. Real-time data helps target operations, improve consistency, and reduce waste.

• Install canopy sensors to measure temperature, humidity, and light penetration – key indicators of plant stress and spray e ectiveness

• Use soil moisture probes and EC meters to tack water availability across vineyard blocks

• Adopt GPS-guided tractor systems to map operations like spraying and pruning, enabling repeatability and better record keeping

• Deploy drones for aerial imaging and normalised di erence vegetation index

The New Holland Braud 9090X has a harvesting unit that moves

NDVI analysis to assess canopy health and identify problem areas

• Integrate weather stations and disease risk models to better time fungicide or insecticide applications based on forecast conditions. Infrastructure preparations: Telemetry-capable canopy and soil sensors, weather stations, GPSequipped machinery, aerial imaging tools, data dashboards, and compatible mapping or decisionsupport software.

“A mobile application like TruePest can automatically identify target pests from others, counting and reporting them in under 30 seconds using your smartphone,“ says Dr Dhurgham Al-Karawi, chief technology o cer at Russell IPM. “This supports better decision-making, even where agronomy time is limited, and ensures interventions are based on current, accurate data.”

7. Frost protection

Frost remains a major threat in the UK.

Mechanised defences include:

• Wind machines that pull warmer air down to protect buds

• Overhead sprinklers that cover vines in a layer of water that release latent heat as the water freezes, maintaining bud temperatures at 0oC

• Spray on barriers, like foams or coatings that insulate.

These systems bene t from automation triggered by temperature sensors where possible. Infrastructure preparations: Site access, planning permission (for xed fans), high- ow water source, automated controls, and operator training.

Retro tting vs. new plantings

We’ve summarised the key factors to weigh up whether you’re retro tting an existing vineyard or starting from scratch with a new site. Each route brings its own challenges and opportunities, but both bene t from thoughtful design and a clear focus on mechanisation from the outset.

Retro tting existing vineyards

Adapting established vineyards for mechanisation involves several considerations:

• Row modi cation – Adjusting row widths to accommodate machinery, which may include removing alternate rows or recon guring existing ones

• Trellis reinforcement – Upgrading trellis systems to ensure they can withstand mechanical operations, such as harvesting and pruning

• Infrastructure improvements – Improving access roads, headlands, and turning areas to facilitate machinery movement

• Cost-bene t analysis – Evaluating the economic feasibility of retro tting versus potential gains in e ciency and yield.

In many cases, growers can phase in mechanisation gradually, starting with targeted operations such as spraying or pre-pruning before attempting full canopy automation or machine harvesting. This staggered approach can help manage investment and reduce disruption to operations.

Designing for mechanisation

When planning new vineyards with mechanisation

in mind, consider:

• Optimal layout – Implementing straight rows with consistent spacing to facilitate machine operations

• Trellis system selection – Choosing trellis designs compatible with mechanised equipment, such as VSP

• Infrastructure planning – Designing adequate headlands and access points for machinery, considering future scalability

• Technology integration – Incorporating monitoring systems and automation from the outset to enhance vineyard management Uniformity is essential – establishing a wellthought-out layout and infrastructure during the design phase makes later adoption of advanced machinery far easier, and future-proofs the vineyard for upcoming developments in

viticultural technology.

Mechanising a vineyard isn’t just about buying equipment – it's about building a system that supports it. That means designing or adapting your site, training sta , and investing in infrastructure that enables e ciency. Start with the most impactful tasks – spraying, pruning, canopy work – and scale gradually.

For many British vineyards, the move to mechanisation is no longer optional. With thoughtful planning and targeted investments, even small or mid-sized operations can realise the bene ts. Mechanisation is a journey – but one that leads to greater resilience, improved productivity, and long-term sustainability.

The Friuli drift recovery system allows operation in conditions that would be too windy for traditional sprayers

The Kubota M5-102N during testing at Hambledon vineyard

PRINS FORKLIFTS UK

Unit

Phone: 01303 237122

Web: www.prinsforklifts.co.uk

Email: sales@prinsforklifts.co.uk

PRINS TIGER

The Prins Tiger forklift trucks are suitable for driving on unmade surfaces.

The forklift trucks are principally designed for use in the horticulture, fruit growing and agricultural industries, although they are also suitable for a range of other external operations.

The Prins Tiger forklift truck range offer a wide choice of machines with minimum wheel pressure and lift capacities between 1 and 2.5 tonnes.

The small turning circle ensures the truck is extremely manoeuvrable and productive, saving a lot of time.

Prins Tiger forklifts trucks are available with diesel or LPG engines.

PRINS PANTHER AVAILABLE FOR HIRE

A compact rough terrain forklift that can now also be used emission-free. The Prins Panther XL-E, equipped as standard with a Li-Fe battery with high energy density that can be quickly and intermittently charged.

•100%

•Li-Fe

•Low

•20

•Adjustable

Li-Fe

Available with a lifting capacity of 1000 to 1800 kg, which, in combination with various types of tires, makes it the ideal machine for various applications where standard forklifts cannot reach.

The unique concept of Prins forklifts with removable counterweights results once again in a multifunctional machine that knows how to find its way anywhere.

Fruit Focus:

Latest innovations and ideas

Fruit Focus 2025 will showcase new technology as well as hosting working machinery demonstrations.

Both growers and processors can learn about the latest innovations at Fruit Focus 2025, with ticket registration now open. Held at NIAB’s East Malling Research Station in Kent, the event is also a hub for sharing agronomic advice and business information.

“NIAB is once again delighted to be hosting Fruit Focus at our East Malling site,” says Scott Ra e, knowledge exchange manager at NIAB. “It allows everyone to visit the UK’s longest established fruit research centre to learn more about the work we are doing to support the industry.”

Research tours

There will be a variety of NIAB specialist research tours taking place throughout the day, including visits to the Produce Quality Centre, Research Vineyard and Plum Research Orchard, says Scott. “There will also be tours to nd out about our research on precision orchard management and the use of hover ies for aphid control.” A special tour of the NIAB stand will inform visitors of research into use of bait sprays for pest control, coir recycling, brown marmorated stink bug monitoring and strawberry decontamination to improve shelf-life.

“This will be the rst year that visitors will have

the chance to visit our growth rooms to learn more about how our crop scientists are working to produce higher yields of strawberries with fewer inputs (using vertical farming systems) to improve sustainability of production. We will also exhibit a new system of non-invasive disease detection in cherries.” Another research tour will include presentations into improving raspberry propagation, genetic research to support commercial soft fruit breeding programmes, and managing the strawberry cool-chain, he adds.

The NFU Fruit Forum will provide an opportunity to discuss and debate key issues, challenges and developments within the industry. And for those looking for the latest innovations, live demos will include autonomous equipment and robotics to ease labour issues and improve fruit quality. There will be the chance to collect BASIS and NRoSO points throughout the event.

Event details:

Date: 9th July 2025

Location: New Road, East Malling, Kent, ME19 6BJ

Tickets: For tickets, visit www.fruitfocus.co.uk

Botanicoir celebrates 20 years at Fruit Focus

To mark 20 years of growth and partnerships, coco coir specialist, Botanicoir, will host a special celebration on stand 309 at Fruit Focus, to give thanks to all its industry colleagues and partners for their continued support.

Visitors to the stand can enjoy a selection of fruit- avoured ice creams, anniversary cake, and Pimm’s, as well as the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win a luxury hamper, with proceeds going to an orphanage in Sri Lanka that Botanicoir supports.

Since it was founded in 2005, the company

has grown into a leading trusted supplier for fruit growers, providing high-quality, sustainable coir products to growers in over 70 countries worldwide.

From its humble beginnings, Botanicoir has championed sustainability, quality, and innovation in the horticultural industry. The company’s founders, Kalum, Samantha, and Chaminda Balasuriya, have worked alongside growers and industry experts to develop tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of agriculture.

“We are thrilled to celebrate 20 years of

Extensive range of plant nutrition

Hortifeeds will be exhibiting at Fruit Focus again this year. The experienced team say they are looking forward to welcoming existing and new customers to stand 504 to discuss the company’s extensive range of plant nutrition and associated products.

Alongside regional sales managers Paul Wright and Giles Dixon, plus agronomist Mike Wainwright, Hortifeeds will also welcome a representative from Glenside to the stand. Glenside will be giving a presentation in the NFU Fruit Forum on the bene ts of highquality Ascophyllum seaweed extracts in fruit production and will be available for questions at the Hortifeeds stand throughout the rest of the day. The company is also involved in the BASIS Knowledge Trail, so attendees are able to claim CPD Points for visiting the Hortifeeds stand. Below is a selection of the company’s “leading” products:

• HortiMix – A range of water-soluble fertilisers specially formulated for soft-fruit crops grown in all substrates

• HortiBoost – Powerful package of 20 essential amino-acids, humic acid complex, seaweed and major and minor nutrients. The complete all-round biostimulant

• Amētros – Powered by Croda Agriculture’s CaT technology, Amētros leads the market for optimisation and distribution of calcium

• HortiPhyte – Highly mobile phosphite fertiliser that increases crop resilience and improves rooting and nutrient uptake

• HortiHydrate Pro – Hortifeeds' new specialised horticultural wetting agent. Ideal for use both in coir and other substrates

• Glenside Marinure and Marinure Extra – High quality seaweed products to boost stress resilience and crop quality and performance.

excellence, innovation, and growth,” says Kalum Balasuriya, Botanicoir founder. “This milestone is a testament to the hard work of our team, the loyalty of our growers, and the partnerships we’ve built along the way and we thank those we’ve worked with for their support. Here’s to many more years of shared success and progress!”

Join Botanicoir on stand number 309 or learn more about its journey at www. botanicoir.com/20-years/

New tech offers reassurance

for small fruit grower

With weather conditions increasingly unpredictable, Staffordshire fruit grower Chris Barton says automating irrigation for his strawberries has provided reassurance.

Strawberry grower Chris Barton (pictured), of Canal Side Farm, has been using the Wolky Tolky cloudbased metering station since April. The farm grows strawberries and raspberries in a tabletop system under polytunnels – sold in the farm shop and PYO – as well as 10,000 pumpkins for a farm event in October. Reassurance that the plant is getting what it needs, with no wilting crops, has been one of the key bene ts of the new metering station. One of the main features is that information is transmitted from the unit to the Wolky Tolky app, which also provides reassurance when Chris is away from the farm.

Prior to this investment, Chris says they were almost judging the level of irrigation required with a “ nger in the sky”. Automating irrigation has brought time and labour savings, and also means less wasted water and expensive fertilisers.

Additionally, the system records electrical conductivity (EC), indicating how concentrated the fertiliser solution is, so it can be adjusted for optimal fruit growth. This is important for Canal Side Farm to

avoid a build-up of salts. The fact that the system is PV battery powered is also key as there’s no electrical supply to the eld, Chris notes.

The Wolky Tolky system o ers a range of other potential features, including pH measuring, though Chris notes that as a smaller sized grower they use a more basic version – but they would consider adding more sensors in the future, particularly noti cation of the ‘mils period’, when warmth and humidity levels indicate a mildew spray is required.

Wolky Tolky Agro Data Systems provides fruit growers and vineyards with measurement and weather stations and a drain monitoring system. It can measure precipitation, soil moisture, temperature, soil temperature, wind, relative humidity, solar radiation, UV index, barometric pressure and leaf wetness. It can be con gured according to the needs of the farm, with only the relevant sensors attached.

Wolky Tolky will be attending Fruit Focus 2025 and can be found on stand 110.

delivering today, cultivating tomorrow

+ Precision: Shaping the future through innovation to deliver high-quality coir with uncompromised uniformity.

+ People: Working hand in hand with growers and advisors to build lasting relationships in industries we care about.

+ Planet: Striving to protect our natural resources and adapting to build resilience for future generations.

“Celebrating 20 years of hard work and excellence, I thank everyone who’s been part of our journey. Here’s to many more years of shared success and progress!”

Kalum Balasuriya, Botanicoir Founder

Blueberry farm

is a perfect match for

organic retailers

Dorset Blueberry Company has a rich history, having introduced blueberries to the UK in the 1940s. Now, it exclusively supplies organic retailers, including Lush Cosmetics. Deputy editor Sarah Kidby spoke to David Trehane to nd out more.

The UK’s rst commercial blueberry producer is nestled in Dorset’s sandy heathlands, and its story dates all the way back to the 1940s. David Trehane – grandfather of the farm’s current owner, who is also called David Trehane – saw an article in a farming magazine o ering blueberry plants free to anyone in the UK who wanted them. A parson on Lulu Island, British Columbia, was o ering 100 plants; all the recipients had to do was pay for the carriage.

David Trehane Snr was one of only four people to answer the advert, and although they arrived a little worse for wear from the journey, they thrived in his garden. A few years later, his daughter, who was working for a fruit nursery in Hampshire at the time, received a telegram from her father, advising that 1,000 blueberry plants were arriving on RMS Queen Mary and could she help plant them. This was the very rst commercial blueberry plantation in the UK and it is still productive today.

Current farm owner David told Fruit & Vine: “This was a time when people didn’t know what blueberries were and they were harvested with a rake up on the moors of Yorkshire, Somerset or Scotland, but these were larger, cultivated blueberries from America. That’s how it all started.”

This led to the rst commercial blueberry plantation in the UK, and it remained the only one until the mid-90s. Its acreage expanded over the course of the 60s and 70s with David’s uncle and grandfather, before David and his mother moved back down south and took over twothirds of the original plantations. The hectarage quadrupled from the late 90s onwards, from around 2ha to 12ha today.

Traditional varieties

The old plantations are still fully productive and most of the varieties used by the organic farm are traditional, older varieties rather than the newer, crunchier alternatives now found on supermarket shelves. Around seven varieties span the whole season, starting with Earliblue and Duke, following into Blueray and Berkeley, then Bluecrop, Ivanhoe and Coville. With all the varieties, avour is the key attribute.

Despite previously supplying 100% of Marks & Spencer’s blueberries until around 2000, the fruit business no longer supplies supermarkets – opting instead for organic retailers Abel & Cole, Riverford, and Lush Cosmetics.

“The organic retailers are much more aligned

Farm owner: David Trehane

Location: Wimborne, Dorset

Total size in ha: 12ha

Fruits grown: Blueberries (varieties: Earliblue, Duke, Blueray, Berkeley, Bluecrop, Ivanhoe and Coville)

Soil type: Sand over gravel

to this sort of business,” explains David. “When everybody else started planting blueberries, it was obvious that the fruit was going to become a commodity, and indeed it has – they are now the second most popular soft fruit behind strawberries.

“We're not interested in being a commodity and that is what supermarkets deal in. They deal in big volumes, low margins, and the infrastructure is just not suited to us, whereas the organic retailers are very much attuned to looking after their suppliers and looking after local produce – they are much more aligned to our own values.”

The farm has a long-standing relationship with Lush Cosmetics, for whom it currently supplies fruit for its popular Catastrophe Cosmetics facemasks. The retailer’s main UK manufacturing facility is in Poole, just 20 minutes away from Dorset Blueberry Company. Interestingly, the fruit sent to Lush is not grade two or ‘waste’ fruit – it’s the same quality as the fruit supplied to the other two retailers for eating. This is largely down to the fact that the farm doesn’t have any grade two fruit, because of the way it’s grown and the large fruit size – which is a key factor in grade two, David comments.

Fruit is hand harvested and packed directly in the eld before going straight into cold store, and it’s with retailers the next day.

Di cult weather

As an organic farm, options for dealing with pests and disease are limited but fortunately, blueberries are a robust fruit, David explains. Having said that, climatic conditions such as those seen over the past two years, with wet springs, creates a big problem with the fungal disease mummy berry, caused by Monilinia vaccinii-corymbosi

“It can be pretty devastating and has had a signi cant impact on our yields for the last couple of years. You can't get rid of it, particularly, but in terms of cultural practice, we have to be very mindful of how we rake out our prunings and cleaning the plantations, and we apply a natural fungicide made of an organism called Bacillus simplex.”

Dorset Blueberry Company grows seven varieties to span the full season

The farm’s blueberries are not grown under polytunnels, and with this fruit needing to be picked when it’s bone dry, unpredictable weather has also caused significant issues at harvest time.

“If we get a wet summer and we can’t get our harvest team in to pick it, the fruit rots on the bushes and that has a big impact again. We were pulling plastic sheeting over the rows when rain was forecast last year just to try and keep the rain o .”

Brexit impacts

Sourcing labour is a signi cant challenge as the farm is not large enough to make use of the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Scheme (SAWS), with the infrastructure it requires. “Up until Brexit we had an absolutely fantastic system which worked well for us. We had people from the EU, mostly from the Czech Republic who came over –they were incredible people, lovely hardworking, professional students. They were highly educated, and they were brilliant. Brexit completely killed that,” David says.

Now the farm relies on local pickers or asylum seekers, but nding skilled and motivated pickers is a real challenge. “That inevitably puts the cost of harvest up, so that then has an impact on our bottom line.”

Sustainability

The farm’s plantations are right next door to a Site of Special Scienti c Interest (SSSI) so they’re heavily involved with the ecology aspects of this, David adds. Badgers from a nearby sett wander among the blueberry plantations, and sand lizards and adders are a regular sight, sunning themselves under the bushes.

The farm also has 22 honeybee and bumblebee hives on site. “The bees have had a hard time in recent years, so we're doing absolutely everything we can to try and look after them,” David explains. Another part of the farm is in Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier and a wild ower meadow will be sown there.

The soil is sand over gravel and one of the downsides of this is limited soil life, so they use lots of woodchip, and, whenever possible incorporate mycorrhiza, organisms that bind themselves to the roots of the plants and encourage them to grow. Soil health testing is done every year.

After a very tough couple of years due to the weather, the farm’s priorities for the near future are consolidation and stabilisation, David concludes.

Dorset Blueberry Company supplies to organic retailers, which align more closely with its values than supermarkets

SOURCING LOCAL WHERE POSSIBLE

Lush buyer Morgan Brown said the local connection is an important part of their partnership with Dorset Blueberry Company, as is its organic status. Lush uses seasonal British fruit wherever possible, particularly when it comes to fruit that grows naturally in the UK – but as a yearround business, some ingredients are sourced elsewhere in Europe and internationally.

The bene ts of each food product for the skin are considered before deciding which products to create – in the case of Dorset’s blueberries, the fruit is packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to rejuvenate the skin and encourage cell repair, Morgan explains.

The business also likes to respect cultures by sourcing fruits in their country of origin, and with manufacturing facilities around the world, products can then be made locally to the supplier. Examples of the

Sourcing labour to pick fruit has been a signi cant challenge for the farm since

retailer’s UK suppliers include The Garlic Farm Isle of Wight, Isle of Wight Tomatoes and Forest Fungi – as well as suppliers of summer berries, potatoes and carrots when these are in season.

Lush’s non-animal testing policy underpins its choice of supplier, with its products being 100% vegetarian and almost entirely vegan, except for those including honey and beeswax – and it looks at the ethos of potential suppliers as a whole. However, Morgan says there are open communications and resources available for growers, and the business has an agroecologist to help advise suppliers on transitioning to organic practices.

Lush’s three-month freshness policy also eases this exibility in switching from British suppliers to those elsewhere in the world – rather than bulk buying and manufacturing everything at once then selling it throughout the year, all the fresh and handmade products are out the door and sent to retailers within three months.

After picking, fruit goes straight into cold store and is with the retailer the next day

Brexit

Fruit is picked and packed directly in the eld

What’s on the horizon for growers? apple and pear

BAPL’s retailer webinar saw experts sharing insights on consumer behaviour, challenges ahead and new varieties. Sarah Kidby reports.

Now is the time for apple growers to push premium options, according to BAPL’s commercial director, Hannah McIlfatrick. Speaking at the recent BAPL retailer webinar, she said if in ation stays around 2–3%, shoppers are expected to continue trading up. While still a relatively small tier, circa 2.2% of the total, premium is the fastest growing tier in terms of both value and volume, with organic in second place. However, Gala still dominates with over 30% of the total share, and Conference nearly 70% for pears.

The total top fruit market has seen spend growth of 6.2% which cannot be entirely accounted for by the rise in price/kg (1.7%) –weight per purchase and frequency are also responsible. Apples have su ered far less from in ation than pears since 2021, with very little of the 7.1% spend growth down to price in ation.

Pears, however, have lost out to a ordable snacks and trade up into other premium fruits – with a price in ation of 8.4%. Pears need to target both the a ordable and premium options, and there are opportunities for bigger packs in a ordable and trading consumers up into ready to eat in tray, Hannah commented.

board member James Simpson said the group is engaging fully with DEFRA’s feasibility study, to make it clear that this is unacceptable to the industry.

Meanwhile, the sector has welcomed the veyear commitment on the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Scheme (SAWS), but the threat of reduced worker numbers is not good news – nor is the end of the PO Fruit & Vegetables scheme this year. Other challenges, which a ect agriculture across the board, include changes to inheritance tax rules, the closure of the Sustainable Farming Incentive, and new suite of compulsory purchase powers.

Business con dence in general is at an alltime low, with a BAPL survey revealing 43% of members are less con dent than they were a year ago, while 81% have no plans to build new storage facilities in the next ve years.

BAPL estimates that the increases to the national living wage and employer national insurance contributions, have resulted in a 7p increase in cost of production for 1kg of apples.

Assurance schemes

Plastics and net zero

The government has committed to recycle in exible plastics at the kerbside, but not until 2027. Currently ow wrap on apples has to be taken back to the store for recycling, which is not high on most consumers’ agenda, Ali noted.

Life cycle carbon analysis for Gala has revealed packaging has the highest impact on growers’ environmental footprint, but ow wrap is important for driving sales, o ering convenience and minimising food waste. Either we need an earlier commitment from government, or an alternative to ow wrap that doesn’t require growers to invest in new equipment for packhouses, Ali said. Similarly, she called for consistency among retailers on net zero scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. Each retailer currently wants a di erent set of data, adding signi cant duplication, cost and labour for growers who supply multiple retailers, which is the majority.

What’s on the horizon?

Whilst we’re still not there with robotic harvesting, lots of new varieties are trying to make a breakthrough, said Tony Harding, procurement and technical director for Worldwide Fruit Ltd. Citrus, grapes and soft fruits have really upped their game in the last few years, so top fruit must keep reinventing itself, he added.

Government policy

BAPL chair Ali Capper noted that the Employer Pays Principle is a key threat to British growers, and could have a signi cant impact on the sector, as growers would have to pay travel and visa costs for seasonal workers. BAPL

Audit burden is another issue, with many growers facing multiple, duplicating audit and assurance schemes. James Simpson noted that his farm is subject to Red Tractor, LEAF and the British Retail Consortium schemes, yet still has to carry out 1418 additional audits and assurance schemes per year for individual retailers.

Whilst the recent UK Farm Assurance Review was welcomed, it only looked at the production stage, whereas many fruit growers also have packing and distribution operations. Retailers were asked to help come up with solutions to the audit burden, as well as challenges with plastics and recycling.

Additionally, the rst variety to come out of Hot Climate Partnership in Catalan – called Tutti – has just been planted in Kent. With this in mind though, we need reassurance from the customer base that investment in a new orchard or variety will be worthwhile, Ali noted.

She concluded by saying that climate maps suggest the UK will continue to be a good place to grow top fruit, and could even improve if temperatures rise as predicted. Regions that we import from, however, such as Southern Europe, North Africa and the Southern Hemisphere, are likely to see reducing agricultural yields due to increased temperatures and drought.

BAPL chair Ali Capper

•Food-safe, odourless and hygienic

• Smooth interior walls for easy emptying

•Easy to clean and quick to dry

•Optional drainage opening

• One-piece moulded with stable skid connection

•Volume: 610L or 1000L

• Extremely durable

•Weather and UV resistant

•With 3 skids or 9 feet

*Available in closed or perforated versions

www.craemer.co.uk

orchards Summer management to maintain healthy vineyards and

high quality apples of the right size. Various methods can be used such as blossom, fruitlet, and hand thinning. Following any applications of ATS for blossom thinning and subsequently of Brevis for fruitlet thinning, we need to assess the need for hand thinning.

For best results, discuss application details and hand-thinning requirements with your agronomist.

Optimum thinning results are achieved when performed on a tree-by-tree basis using TreeScout developed by Aurea Imaging. This tractor-mounted sensor assesses blossom density on individual trees, producing maps that ensure thinning is performed only where needed.

Pears

On pears, continue some basic applications for scab control and monitor pear sucker. Control as required when eggs hatch and nymphs emerge and start feeding. Aphids are rarely a problem on pears, but consider controlling if more than two to three clusters per tree are found, to avoid potentially rapid build-up.

Cherries

In cherries, continue monitoring for spider mites and cherry black ies. SWD control needs to be applied after the straw-colour stage, based on crop risk and pest pressure. Exirel has received an EAMU approval for 2025.

Vines

Agrovista agronomist Fokion Chatziavgerinos highlights key orchard and vineyard tasks now that summer has arrived.

Apples

Unusually dry conditions kept the risk of apple scab low during the primary season, but secondary scab risk is important from now on. This is triggered by the formation of conidia and conidiospores leading to new infections on leaves and fruit in adjacent areas.

Multiple secondary cycles of scab infection can happen throughout the season whenever we record rain events. Growers should make applications of protectants and after an infection event, if cover is inadequate, they can apply eradicants.

Keep monitoring for rosy apple aphid populations, as levels can still build up in orchards. Woolly aphid assessment during early summer is very important, so no less than 25 trees should be inspected per orchard.

Control is needed wherever woolly aphid has spread to extension growth. Batavia is a good option as it also provides incidental control of rosy aphid populations and other sucking insects, including red spider mite. A second application may be needed, following the initial application in May. It is worth noting that the naturally occurring parasitic wasp Aphelinus mali helps

contain woolly aphids.

Higher temperatures favour spider mite growth. The control threshold is two mites per leaf and it is crucial to encourage natural predators such as earwigs, ladybirds and Typhlodromus predatory mites.

Applications for saw y control were necessary at the end of petal fall where catches were high. We now need to focus on the risk of codling and tortrix moths. Traps to monitor ying activity should have been installed during petal fall and we recommend checking the codling models frequently to indicate when applications should be made. Threshold for codling is ve moths/trap/week, reducing to three in August, while for tortrix they are 30/week. Ovicidal products such as Tonus should be applied a few days before predicted egg hatch. A subsequent application of Coragen when egg hatch is predicted to be at its peak will control codling eggs and new larvae. Following that, depending on pest pressure, farms can apply Carpovirusine Cydia granulovirus or opt for other actives if tortrix control is also necessary.

Crop loading in apple orchards

Seasonal crop load adjustment is vital to produce

On vines the risk of downy mildew is set to increase from now on and remain high during the susceptible owering period, but can still a ect crops through the summer. Frequent checks of Agrovista’s Fruit Insight model will reveal the risk as it considers all the parameters required for infection, and helps ne-tune application timing. If a risk event is con rmed include a systemic eradicant product to achieve a kick-back activity. Dry conditions also increase the risk of powdery mildew. Appropriate fungicides should be included the spray programme through the season. It is important to maintain balanced nutrition by including adequate levels of nitrogen, potassium and micronutrients such as calcium, boron and zinc to support ower and fruit development.

Finally, a reminder that you can meet the Agrovista fruit team in person at Fruit Focus, to be held on 9th July at NIAB East Malling. Agrovista is on stand number 300 and is supporting the event along with partners Botanicoir, ROAM technology, Bato and Koppert.

It is the best time to ask all those questions about substrate and substrate systems, disinfection of growing areas and pollination and biological controls. This year Botanicoir celebrates 20 years, so please come along and say hello and celebrate with the team.

ABOUTOUREXPERT

Fokion Chatziavgerinos joined Agrovista’s highly regarded team of fruit specialists in 2021, advising on tree fruit and vines across England and Wales. Key interests include integrated pest management, plant pathology, fruit tree nutrition and fruit crop physiology.

Codling moth damage in apples

Precision Plus Ultra

• 100% coir substrate tailored for soft fruit production

• Graded, washed and buffered, ready to grow

• Optimum drainage and air-fill porosity

• Improved structure for prolonged performance, maximising the potential for reuse enquiries@agrovista.co.uk agrovista.co.uk/fruit

MISTBLOWERS Spray without compromise

Orchard, vine or forestry, HARDI have a mistblower to meet all your spraying needs. Benefit from the expertise gained from HARDI’s many years of worldwide experience in spraying. Everything from tank design to the latest electronic control systems is reflected in our mistblowers. Peter Wiles - Southern Territory Manager: 07901 856734 Martyn Sleight - Northern Territory Manager: 07785 707746 sales@hardi-uk.com | www.hardi.co.uk

✓

✓

✓

Understanding biofungicides microbial

Microbial biofungicides continue to gain momentum, but the learning curve for using them

effectively can seem rather steep. Lallemand

Plant Care’s Bryan Limerick explains more.

For growers who are new to microbial biofungicides or who have tried and had little success in the past, trying again and getting consistently e ective results can seem challenging.

Since the rst registered biofungicides were introduced many years ago, the number of available products has increased substantially, with signi cantly improved e cacy and cost-inuse with many biofungicides.

Most registered microbial active ingredients act against plant pathogens via two or more modes of action:

• Competition for space and nutrients to outcompete pathogens

• Antagonism of pathogens by releasing metabolites to inhibit or disrupt pathogen growth

• Hyperparasitism by actively infecting and feeding on pathogens to weaken them

• To locally or systemically induce the plant’s own defence mechanisms against infection and spread of pathogens.

The most successful IPM programmes are those that are proactive rather than reactive. They usually include:

• Knowledge about the historical and potential pathogens that can a ect your fruit production

• Proper sanitation and crop hygiene to prevent spread of disease from infected plants and contaminated equipment or inputs

• Control of environmental, physical and chemical factors, where possible, to limit conditions that favour pathogen development, plant stresses, and disease spread

• Continuous disease monitoring and accurate pathogen diagnoses to identify unexpected issues when they arise

• Identifying, understanding, and optimising biological and synthetic fungicide tools for coste ectively preventing or minimising crop diseases.

These components used together disrupt or eliminate environmental, cultural, and biological factors that are essential for pathogens to successfully grow, develop, and cause damage.

Appropriate selection

Properly selected, applied, and timed biofungicide treatments directly exploit pathogens’ biological

vulnerabilities. They also support the crops’ physiological health, innate tolerance to plant diseases, and ultimately quality and productivity.

When developing your own e ective microbial biofungicide-based IPM strategies, you should consider some important factors:

• Be proactive rst, then reactive and therapeutic. Biofungicides work best preventatively. Focus on e ectively protecting non-infected plants by applying before pathogens attack

• Know and understand the potential pathogens that can a ect the production of your fruit.

This can help you select products that exploit pathogen weaknesses, and decide in advance if and when to apply these products in your programme.

Formulation impact on e cacy

Another factor is the way microbial biofungicides are produced and formulated, which can each have a big impact on their e cacy. Two products with the same active ingredient may yield wildly di erent results.

That is why you should consider manufacturers with in-house expertise in fermentation and production of their formulations. This helps ensure the quality of the product you are using from batch to batch. Choose the best manufacturers and distributors to add value to your operations. Opt for the proper formulation, application method, and application timings for your target pathogen.

Like synthetic fungicides, they do not persist at e ective levels inde nitely. Microbial active ingredients in many soil or growing medium applied products may last from 2–12 weeks, depending on soil, environmental and plant factors, as well as cropping practices.

Foliar biofungicides typically need to be applied frequently since they usually do not spread to new growth, are not systemic, and can be negatively a ected by environmental stresses such as UV light, low relative humidity, temperature extremes, and incompatible crop inputs.

Carefully read labels for storage, handling, mixing, application requirements and limits. Since most microbial biofungicides contain living microorganisms and/or metabolites or extracts from their fermentation, they generally cannot

tolerate temperature and physical extremes as much as most synthetic fungicides. As such, they have limited shelf-lives under speci c storage conditions and particular application requirements or restrictions.

When testing biofungicide products, it is important to identify what the measures of success with the new product should look like before you begin. In some cases, short term visual impact directly on the disease might not be as important as the impact on marketable yield or quality. In fruit production, botrytis control is a prime example of choosing the right measure of success. While plants may appear free of botrytis in the eld, the fungus can still infect fruit and cause it to rot during storage.

Continued high use of chemical fungicides can also have a direct impact on fruit production. While your number of fruit ‘free of damage from disease’ is up, the overall yield may be impacted more than what you are able to save from pathogens.

Be on the lookout for unexpected results –both positive and negative.

Ideal rotational partners

It is important to remember that it is di cult for pathogens to develop true resistance to biofungicides. This makes them ideal rotational partners for many synthetic fungicides, as they can help prevent or delay fungicide resistance development.

When used alone, they work best against labelled crop diseases at low-to-moderate disease pressures. They are likely to be less e ective under high disease pressures, where pathogen levels are high, and/or conditions are suddenly highly favourable for disease development. That is why you should consider using them in combination with compatible synthetic and/or other biological fungicides to manage diseases.

Microbial biofungicides are not miraculous. But using all available information and recommendations should help you build, evaluate and implement your own e ective biologically-based IPM programmes using biofungicides.

The impact of botrytis infection in grapes

Fourth generation blackcurrant grower

Jo Hilditch grows blackcurrants for Ribena, as well as for famous liqueur, British Cassis

Blackcurrant growing

The Blackcurrant Foundation shines a light on the market and growing considerations for this niche fruit.

Growing blackcurrants in the UK is a specialist area; it’s a niche crop. Of the circa 6 million hectares in cropped land across the country, just 2,500 hectares are used for growing blackcurrants – 90% of which (around 10,500 tonnes) is contracted to Suntory Beverage and Food GB&I, the owners of Ribena.

There are, of course, other growers in the UK who supply into di erent markets (jam, cordials, Cassis, IQF fruit, fresh fruit in season); however, it is a tough industry to break into due to the limited market opportunities and investment required into specialist equipment. Most growers have an average of around 45ha, which is approximately the area that can be serviced by one harvester with careful scheduling.

Agronomic challenges

Blackcurrants are a minor crop, and as such, the industry has to work hard to support itself through the various agronomic challenges of the day. With the support of Ribena the industry has its own R&D levy committee commissioning projects annually; currently they are focusing on the scourge of the industry – the blackcurrant gall mite – looking to novel approaches containing silicon and orange oil to supplement control, alongside taking a deeper look at how the migration of this pest has developed in the past

decade to inform our modelling approach. We are also investigating nitrogen, going back to basics with nitrogen source and response trials and investigating the potential to reduce inorganic nitrogen requirements with the use of novel nitrogen xing technology in the form of Blue N from Corteva and R-Leaf from Crop Intellect.

Alongside this, the investment SBF GB&I has made into its blackcurrant breeding programme at the James Hutton Institute into the most suitable varieties for its product over the last 30

years is extraordinary and is a testament to its support of this very small UK industry. Growers for Ribena have access to a series of varieties licensed under Plant Variety Rights and bred for their agronomic properties and suitability for the iconic brand in terms of avour. Traits including vitamin C content, colour, bush habit and suitability for machine harvesting, disease resistance, and climate change resilience have been developed by plant breeders at the James Hutton Institute.

Varieties

There are excellent varieties available to the open market too, some bred again by JHI for their suitability for hand picking, e.g. Big Ben,

or disease resistance such as Ben Finlay, plus those which have come out of the PVR period. The list of varieties is long and mostly named after Scottish mountains – Bens (well, the JHI is in Dundee after all!), e.g. from Ben Gairn, to Ben Hope; and from Ben Starav to Ben Lawers!

These varieties have not just been developed for their agronomic excellence but also so that the harvesting season is extended and spread over around six weeks (early July to mid-August). The varieties are grown in key fruit growing regions that range from Kent and East Anglia in the East, to Somerset, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire in the west and Dundee in the North, where the last berries come in generally around 10 days behind those of the same variety picked in the south-east.

All growers will face the same challenges in terms of a changing climate, more pests and diseases and fewer products on the market to ensure the best care for them. Bearing in mind that a blackcurrant bush does not bear any fruit of consequence until year 3–4, there is considerable expense that goes into the plantations even before the purchase of expensive specialist machinery. Establishment costs are around £8,000 per hectare. With increasing automation, growers have also invested in machinery, including orchard tractors and harvesters (now selling at between £200k and £250k).

Commercial blackcurrant growing

The pros include:

• Climate compatibility – The UK's cool winters and warm summers provide suitable conditions for blackcurrant cultivation, droughts and frost in continental Europe have been very challenging for blackcurrant growers in recent years, which UK growers have been shielded from to an extent. Plant breeding for resilient varieties is key to this.

• Market demand – With a customer like Ribena providing long-term grower contracts for UK blackcurrants, there is a consistent market for high-quality fruit. The mutually symbiotic

relationship between the customer and producer brings advantages in terms of R&D and political support for this small industry.

• Sustainability initiatives – Being a perennial crop, in place for 10–15 years at a time, there is ample opportunity to protect and support wildlife and the environment in which they’re grown; in fact, the bushes themselves o er a great habitat for nationally vulnerable species such as grey partridge and brown hare. Growers collaborate with Ribena to promote biodiversity and sustainable farming practices as part of their contract. This includes establishing wide grass margins and alleyways, planting trees, hedgerow management, installing bird boxes, planting wild bird and

A BLACKCURRANT YEAR

Second generation blackcurrant grower Edward Keene grows a number of varieties for Ribena

pollen and nectar mixes and protecting particular species.

The cons include:

• Climate change – Milder winters can disrupt the necessary chilling period, affecting flowering and yields. Extreme weather events heat, drought, and storms, are an increasing threat. 40 º C+ saw huge blackcurrant losses on the floor during the 2022 harvest campaign

• Pest and disease pressure – Ongoing vigilance is required to manage pests and diseases, which can impact crop quality and quantity. Key targets: Aphid, leaf midge, saw y, botrytis, leaf spots, phomopsis dead arm. The blackcurrant gall mite and associated Reversion virus, in particular, are insidious pests that can and do limit plantation life if not very carefully managed. As a minor crop, access to plant protection technology can be challenging and requires much industry investment and involvement in R&D to gain EAMUs

• Delayed returns – Newly planted bushes take up to three years to produce a signi cant harvest, requiring patience and investment

• Limited market – Unless you have a contract with an industry partner, blackcurrants are not an easy fruit to get to market, and therefore, the investment needed in machinery and establishment is not easy to justify.

Despite these challenges, the dedication of UK blackcurrant growers ensures the continued success of this small but vibrant industry. Their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and quality keeps the nation's blackcurrant legacy thriving.

For information on blackcurrant cultivation and the work of The Blackcurrant Foundation, visit www.blackcurrantfoundation.co.uk

• Planting (November–March): Planted as 8in hardwood cuttings by hand or machine, at 30cm spacings in rows three metres wide. These cuttings, sourced from UK nurseries, take three years to mature and bear fruit.

• Spring growth (March–April): Most blackcurrant varieties require around 2,000 chill hours (i.e. hours below 7ºC during October–end February) to go into full dormancy and for proper vernalisation. This ensures even bud break in the following spring and therefore an even harvest for better quality. The 2,000 hours is seldom achieved in today’s climate, and as such, much work has gone into dormancy-breaking treatments.

• Flowering and pollination (April–May): As temperatures rise, a 'green haze' appears as the leaves expand and the ower buds open. Winter moths and late frosts can damage owers. Rising temperature also encourages the emergence of the gallmite (or big bud mite). The migration period is the only window for control of this pest, which spends much of its life hidden inside the developing bud. Flowering is also critical for botrytis control and feeding the growing crop, balancing vegetative growth for next year and the reproductive growth for this year.

• Harvest (July–August): The harvest season is brief but intense. It commences in early July in southern regions like Kent and concludes by mid-August in northern areas such as Dundee. Mechanical harvesters straddle the rows of bushes and shake the blackcurrants loose; blackcurrants need to be at optimal ripeness to ensure they come o the bush and have the right Brix levels whilst not being overripe. Over 90% of the UK's blackcurrant crop is destined for Ribena production and heads directly for juicing, mostly within 24 hours of being harvested.

• Post-harvest care: After harvesting, bushes require pruning to encourage new growth. Annual winter pruning involves removing about one-third of the oldest stems, utilising angled rotating blade cutters, promoting a healthy structure and better yields in subsequent seasons.

Practical guide to

growing grapes

for still red wine in the UK

VineWorks business director Chris Buckley discusses growing grapes for red wine production.

The UK is now a world class wine-producing region, particularly for cool-climate viticulture. While traditionally known for sparkling wines and increasingly still white wine production, red wine production is on the rise, especially in the warmer southern regions.

Successful red wine grape growing in the UK demands strategic varietal selection, precise vineyard management, and careful harvesting. Here’s a focused guide on how to grow grapes for red wine production in the UK climate.

Best varietals for UK red wine

When deciding which varietal is right for your vineyard, there are a few important things to think about. How well the variety suits your soil, climate and growing conditions is key, as is its resistance to common diseases. It’s also worth considering how reliably it can ripen within the UK’s shorter growing season. And of course, think about who will buy the wine – marketability can make a real di erence to the success of your vineyard in the long run.

Choosing the right grape variety is crucial for achieving quality red wine in the UK’s cool and variable climate. Both traditional vinifera and modern hybrids show promise.

Traditional varietals

• Pinot Noir – This classic red variety, particularly the Dijon and Burgundy clones, is a standout in the UK owing to its ability to ripen in cooler

conditions. Its delicate balance of acidity and red fruit character makes it ideal for still red wine as well as sparkling. The varietal also enjoys consistent popularity among consumers, valued for its nesse, complexity, and broad appeal.

• Fruhburgunder/Pinot Noir Précoce – This earlyripening mutation of Pinot Noir ripens reliably in the UK, o ering fruit-forward wines with less hangtime pressure.

• Meunier – Though more commonly associated with sparkling production, some clones are now being successfully vini ed as still reds, delivering soft, fruit-driven wines with good structure.

Hybrid and PIWI varietals

• Rondo, Regent, Divico, and Cabaret Noir –These varieties o er better disease resistance and earlier ripening – important traits in the UK. They produce deeper-coloured wines with robust tannins and are increasingly planted for reliable red wine production, particularly in marginal areas.

Canopy management

Cool climates often struggle to ripen red varieties for still production fully. Canopy management is essential to ensure grapes reach optimal levels of sugar, colour, and phenolic ripeness.

Yield moderation

To concentrate avour and ripen skins and sugars e ectively, implement fruit dropping early in the season. Fruit dropping can help concentrate

the vine’s energy into fewer grapes, leading to improved sugar levels, richer juice, greater avour, and overall better grape quality.

Remove neck bunches, which are typically less ripe and can dilute the quality of the must.

Leaf stripping

Strategically remove leaves around the fruit zone to expose clusters to sunlight, promoting colour development and increasing tannin and anthocyanin levels.

Improved sunlight penetration and air ow reduce disease risk – particularly botrytis – allowing for a longer hangtime and better ripening.

Netting

Use bird and pest netting during late summer and autumn to protect ripening fruit, especially in high-risk areas. This allows grapes to remain on the vine longer, essential for full avour and phenolic development.

Harvest

In the UK’s climate, the harvest window can be tight and unpredictable. Careful timing and method are vital.

Harvesting by hand is preferred for red wine grapes. This maintains whole bunch integrity and allows the winemaker to control maceration based on the condition of the fruit and desired wine style. Hand-harvesting also enables selective picking, removing underripe or damaged bunches before they reach the winery.

Conclusion

Producing red wine in the UK is both challenging and rewarding. With careful varietal selection –balancing tradition and innovation – along with thoughtful vineyard management and harvest techniques, it is entirely possible to craft highquality fruit for still red wines.

As climate change and viticultural advances continue to reshape the UK's wine landscape, the future of red wine from UK vineyards looks increasingly promising and the viticulturists at VineWorks are there to support you, one vine at a time.

ABOUTOUREXPERT

VineWorks has been establishing and supporting UK vineyards since 2006. With over 4.5 million vines planted, 300 vineyards established and thousands of tonnes of grapes hand-harvested, VineWorks' expertise comes from experience. Visit www.vine-works. com for more information and to get in touch.

VITICULTURAL & WINEMAKING CONSULTANT - SIMON DAY.

• 30+ years of experience in UK viticulture and winemaking,

• Full site assessments and variety / rootstock and trellis advice pre-planting.

• Vineyard management advice and mentoring.

• Winery design and ongoing winemaking advice.

• Business planning & legislation, HMRC, Food Standards Agency, etc.

• Available on an ad-hoc, project, or annual retainer basis.

Get in touch for more information:

e: sday@kingsthorne.co.uk

t: 07796 141390

w: www.kingsthorne.co.uk

characterquality and With age comes

One of the oldest commercial vineyards in the UK, Astley Vineyard was established in the lush Severn Valley in Worcestershire in 1971 and features some unexpected grape varieties. Editor Rachel Hicks spoke to its current owners, the Haywood family, to nd out more.

Astley Vineyard is currently owned by the Haywood family – Tim is responsible for the vineyard, his wife Bev manages the tourism and retail, their son Chris is the wine expert and winemaker, while their daughter-in-law Matleena works in the vineyard and manages the accounts.

Originally established in 1971 by the Bache family, the vineyard is one of the oldest commercial estates in the UK. When it was planted, Astley Vineyard was widely regarded to be the most northerly vineyard in the world.

Michael Bache was a solicitor who loved wine. He did meticulous research, and chose a range of varieties suited to the climate in the Midlands. After the Bache family retired in the early 90s, Astley was bought by Jonty Daniels,

an experienced farm manager. Over the next 24 years, he and his wife professionalised the viticulture, and turned Astley Vineyard into a well-regarded wine producer before retiring to Thailand, where Jonty passed away in 2024.

The Haywood family bought the vineyard as a going concern in the summer of 2017, with the idea that it would be a retirement project for Tim and Bev. While they had lived in the area for over 20 years, Tim had been commuting to London in his role as CFO of a global construction business –fed up of the rat race, they wanted a change.

At the time, Chris was also living in London, working at Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge gaining experience and studying for his WSET wine quali cation.

With 48 hours' notice, family and friends are called in to help with harvest in return for lunch

Tim driving the old Iseki tractor which is used to transport grapes during harvest

The estate is just over 4ha in total, of which 2ha is under vine, while a wooded valley with spring and stream bring diversity to the vineyard.

Astley was originally part of a larger woodland before being turned to agriculture in the late 18th century. For much of the 19th and early 20th century it was a cherry orchard owned by a charity for the bene t of the poor in nearby Bewdley.

Then the Baches bought the land, built themselves a house complete with tennis courts and outdoor swimming pool (both now gone), before grubbing up the orchard in the 1960s in preparation for the vineyard planting.

Intriguing varieties

There are four main grape varieties split fairly evenly over the two hectares – Bacchus, Madeleine Angevine, Siegerrebe and Kerner. There are also tiny quantities of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

The Kerner vines are the original ones planted in 1971, making them among the very oldest in the UK and they are listed on the Global Old Vine Registry – as are the Madeleine Angevine vines, which are over 45 years old.

No other vineyard in the UK grows commercial quantities of Kerner. This uncommon vinifera cross

of Riesling and Trollinger ripens late (mid-October onwards) and ages well. When picked early, it has a simple elegance that is similar to Riesling or Pinot Blanc. When ripe, or picked late, it is far more opulent, rich and aromatic; like Chenin Blanc or Viognier.

When it comes to its tricky management, Chris says: “Due to its immense vigour, Kerner is managed di erently in our vineyard. The crown is raised high, and the growth is trained downwards to expend excess energy. Each unique Kerner vine takes signi cantly more time to manage than all our other varieties.”

Planted in 1996, Siegerrebe is a notoriously hard-to-establish variety that seems to thrive in Astley’s vineyard. Chris explains: “A cross of Madeleine Angevine and Gewürztraminer, it is a blush, early ripening variety that is immensely aromatic. When picked early, it shows lychee and passionfruit. As it ripens (and with extended maceration) it shows strawberry and potpourri.

“We can also leave this variety on the vine, and pick it extremely late to make our Late Harvest (when the vintage allows).”

Harvest is entirely done by hand. “We have a lovely group of friends and family to call on,” says Chris. “We wait for appropriate ripeness and a

sunny day, and aim to pick around one tonne in a morning. We all have lunch together once the tonne is picked, then the family go to the winery to process the grapes.”

This means the grapes only have to travel 100 metres for processing and bottling.

Yield and canopy management

Being relatively northern and in the West Midlands, the average yield varies signi cantly. In the last ve years, due to frost events and some wet springs/cold autumns, the average yield is seven tonnes. Having very old vines also restricts production, Chris points out. “Our old vines are special and produce characterful wines. Yields are lower per hectare, but we see quality over quantity as a strength. We must occasionally replace dead vines, but we are committed to nurturing the existing plants.”

All vine management is done by the family, led by Tim. Pruning starts as soon as Christmas is over and takes around ve weeks at a constant rate.

The majority of the vines are on a double guyot system, but a few rows are spur pruned. Tim says: “We are gradually converting our Sauvignon to spur pruned. In January 2023 we hosted a pruning course organised by Plumpton College and led by

Italian consultancy Simonit & Sirch. Their emphasis on ‘Gentle’ pruning with consideration of sap flow and pruning scars transformed our methodology and has significantly improved the health of our old vines.

“Shoot selection is meticulous to ensure our vines are not overburdened. Then canopy management is the biggest task of the year to ensure good airflow around the developing grapes. We top the vines with a hand-held hedge trimmer, and we vigorously leaf strip during August.”

Overcoming challenges

2024 was a difficult year for most vineyards, and the same was true for Astley. “A very long cold spring delayed the start of the season, so we were playing catch-up all year,” says Tim. “But, unlike other vineyards, we did not suffer significantly from disease due to a proactive spraying programme and support from an expert from Hutchinsons. There were plenty of bunches, but individual berry size was noticeably smaller than usual resulting in less juice at press.”

Being in the west of England, rain can be an issue in some years, producing high humidity levels and resultant risk of mildew. However, Tim points out: “Our policy is to spray only as needed

and it is definitely the case that prevention is more effective rather than cure. We are very proactive in canopy management to minimise risk.

“We initially tried fully organic management of the vineyard but it is extremely time consuming and ultimately ineffective for our site.”

Boosting biodiversity

In 2023, the Haywoods were approached by the University of Worcester to take part in a study looking at perennial wildflower planting in vineyards to promote biodiversity. “We planted one in three of the alleys with a special flower mix which is now well-established and needs only a couple of specific height mows a year as maintenance,” says Chris. “There has been increased numbers of birds and insects onsite and is also ridiculously pretty!

“We have counted 62 different birds visiting or living on the estate. And a bat survey listed five different species using our woodland.”

Winemaking

“When we bought the estate, the wine was being made by third party contractor Three Choirs in nearby Gloucestershire,” shares Tim. “They had done a great job for Astley and helped win

Owners: The Haywood family

Location: Severn Valley, Worcestershire

Soil type: Loam over red Triassic sandstone

Aspect: Sheltered from high winds, the area is slightly warmer than the surrounding region. The vineyard is gently sloped towards the east and 95m above sea level, with rows oriented to maximise airflow. The River Severn is less than 1km away, and there is a deep adjacent valley as well as an ancient woodland, all of which help to create the welcome microclimate.

Narrow alleys mean the majority of the vine management has to be carried out by hand

Average yield for the vineyard is around 7 tonnes, although this is variable depending on conditions

The whole family gets stuck in. Below, winemaker Chris offers his expertise to visitors

Having its own winery on site means there is less than 100 metres from vine to tank

Astley's beautiful and highly recognisable labels were designed by a local agency

although occasionally has to supplement its small quantity of Pinot Noir, buying grapes from a neighbour to make a limited amount of red. The family’s goal is single estate wines at all times.

The vineyard’s output is predominantly white still wines, although they do also produce a small amount of sparkling. “We also make limited amounts of our own vermouth, using spirit from a local distillery and a variety of botanicals,” explains Chris. “We combine the spirit and botanicals into ‘teas’ which we use to avour and strengthen the base wine. Finally, we now make a ‘piquette’ – after pressing grapes for wine, we rehydrate the waste skins with water, press again, then bottle ferment the liquid. It creates a cloudy, dry refreshing drink at only 5% ABV, similar to craft cider [this process was made legal in the UK in Jan 2024].

“Our sparkling wines are mainly made with Kerner grapes, but we have previously made a sparkling Bacchus. We use the Traditional Method only, all disgorged and inoculated by hand – a time-consuming process!

numerous awards. However, we felt we wanted more control over the whole process and that it would make long term nancial sense if we had our own winery, and allow us to make more micro decisions about winemaking.

“The problem was, none of us had ever done it before. So we enlisted the help of winemaking consultant Simon Day to create our own bespoke winery, which formally opened in 2018. It was part funded by EU Leader grants and is designed to cope with our grapes only.”

“Our most popular sparkling is called Freya. It’s made from Kerner and is usually ‘SEC’ in its sugar levels – halfway between dry and sweet. It makes it approachable and fun to drink – a great celebration wine.”

For the team, bottle and corkage procurement is always a concern, with Tim pointing out that the lead times have become very long since Brexit and Covid-19. “But we are good at long term planning and have yet to be tripped up!” he smiles.

Sales and tourism

Tim and Bev are obviously very proud of their son. “Chris has done a remarkable job in the winery with a clear vision, meticulous care and an understanding of Astley’s grapes.”

Astley makes all its wine from its own grapes,

Almost all Astley wine is sold direct to the consumer, through the site shop, online store and on tasting tours. “We do sell to a few farm shops, local pubs and restaurants but in small amounts. We will also supply a few Michelin-recommended restaurants who want something unusual on their tasting menu – for example, Forest Side in Cumbria is currently featuring our Pinot Noir,” shares Chris.

Tourism is a key element of the business and has been developed signi cantly since the Haywoods took over the business in 2017. “We built a tasting room within 12 months of moving in which acts as a shop and place for tours and events,” says Chris. “We run tours for up to 20 people once a week throughout the summer – these are usually sold out and we have won several awards for our tourism o er. Vouchers are important for tours – they are a popular present,

Tasting tours are a key diversi cation for the vineyard, and help to secure wine sales

many being sold in the pre-Christmas period.

“Having visitors is important to us – we can tell our story, let people understand what we do here, and they try our wines. We have a motto –‘they buy what they try’. And selling direct avoids having to give hefty trade discounts.”

In summer 2024, Astley installed two shepherd huts into the vineyard for weekend stays – another source of income and this attracts visitors from further a eld. Funding through Malvern Hills District Council helped this project nancially.

Brand identity

“Our label designs are very important to us and make our bottles instantly recognisable,” Bev Haywood comments. “We invested in a rebrand as soon as we arrived in 2017 using local agency WeAreBeard in Worcester to bring our ideas to life. The modern yet illustrative nature designs are distinctive and eye catching.”

Machinery

Future of the vineyard

Describing themselves as a ‘micro business’, there’s little need for lots of big machinery. The vineyard operates one old Iseki tractor for pulling a trailer, and a three-year old Kubota tractor which was bought new from Ron Smiths in Worcester for spraying and occasional ail mowing. Both are very narrow to cope with the tight alleys, and a ride-on mower is used for keeping the grass down. But Chris highlights one particularly useful tool: “One of our favourite bits of kit are the rechargeable Kebtek pruning secateurs – good value for money, light weight – perfect for pruning the vines!”

“After seven years of project after project, we are consciously trying to rein ourselves back,” Chris comments. “We’ve made a lot of changes to the site and made a lot of investments in buildings and machinery. Buying the estate was supposed to be a retirement project for my parents, but it has turned into a much bigger undertaking than originally thought. The vineyard is now on the market so they can retire properly, but we know it is likely to be some time before the right buyer comes along.”

Tim adds: “Chris is 35 years old so has a great wine focused career ahead. He’s already doing some consultancy work and has done judging for the IEWA competition. Until the right buyer comes along, we will carry on as we are, enjoying the work and the lovely place we live in.”

•

•

•

•

•

•

Finding the right t for your wine estate's growth Wine sales options:

Winemaker and business strategist Michelle Knight shares her wisdom when it comes to the world of wine sales.

As a wine estate owner, the journey to success involves much more than cultivating the perfect grapes and crafting exceptional wines. The real challenge begins when it comes to selling your product. There are a variety of sales channels available, each with its own unique bene ts and challenges. With the right strategy, you can create multiple revenue streams that work harmoniously together, expanding your reach and enhancing your business growth.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular wine sales options, examining their potential, as well as the pitfalls to watch out for, giving you a clearer understanding of which options align best with your business and how to make them work for you.

Cellar door sales

For many wineries, cellar door sales are the cornerstone of their business. This direct-toconsumer approach allows visitors to experience your wine

rsthand, enjoy a personal connection with the makers, and make purchases in the moment. Cellar door sales o er the chance to tell your story, showcase your wines, create an immersive experience for guests, not to mention o ering the highest pro t margin of any sales option.

However, while cellar door sales are lucrative, they require more than just a physical space to be successful. You need to create a welcoming environment, knowledgeable sta , and establish a pricing strategy that re ects the experience you o er. And that’s just the beginning. Managing foot tra c, seasonal uctuations, and ensuring customer satisfaction are ongoing challenges.

Considerations: Running a cellar door requires signi cant upfront investment – think about the costs of setting up the venue, sta ng, and marketing. Furthermore, the return on investment (ROI) isn’t always immediate, and it can be hard to predict the ow of visitors, especially during o -peak seasons. Without a solid marketing plan, your cellar door could easily go unnoticed in a competitive landscape.

A successful cellar door experience goes beyond having a beautiful space. It requires careful planning, from pricing strategies to sta training and marketing initiatives. A cohesive strategy that aligns with your overall business goals will help you create a memorable customer experience that keeps people coming back, turning casual visitors into loyal wine lovers.

Tours & tastings

Wine tourism is on the rise, and o ering guided tours and tastings is one of the best ways to showcase your winery while adding an additional revenue stream. A well-crafted wine tour allows visitors to learn about the winemaking process, explore your vineyards, and, of course, taste your wonderful wines.

But, as with cellar door sales, tours and tastings require more than just an enthusiastic guide. They demand thoughtful logistics, including managing tour group sizes, scheduling, and ensuring that visitors have an engaging experience. You’ll also need to handle the marketing of these tours and pricing them to be both appealing and pro table.

Considerations: While tours and tastings can generate additional revenue, the logistics behind them can quickly become a headache. How much should you charge? What should the tour include? How do you market it e ectively? Overseeing the coordination of the tours, handling sta ng, and ensuring an outstanding experience for every guest can be overwhelming. Without proper planning, your tours could end up feeling disjointed and unpolished, which would negatively impact your brand.

Creating an unforgettable wine tour takes more than just enthusiasm. It requires a comprehensive wine tourism plan aligned to your brand values.

Weddings & events

Weddings, corporate events, and private parties can be lucrative additions to a winery’s revenue stream. A picturesque vineyard or a rustic barn transformed into an event venue creates a unique atmosphere that’s hard to replicate. Many wineries have seen great success hosting weddings and events, drawing in customers who might not otherwise have visited.

However, hosting events comes with a set of challenges. You’ll need to manage venue logistics, such as catering, space preparation, and dealing with event coordination. Additionally, your winery must meet certain legal requirements, such as obtaining licenses, complying with health and safety regulations, and ensuring proper insurance coverage.

Considerations: Events can be a great source of income, but they also require a substantial amount of time, e ort, and expertise to execute successfully. Without proper planning, events can quickly spiral into logistical nightmares. It’s not just about having the right space; you need sta who are trained to handle the demands of large gatherings, a catering plan, and a clear marketing strategy to attract bookings.

If you’re considering turning your winery into an event venue, it’s crucial to have a clear plan in place in order to provide exceptional event experiences while minimising the stress of event management.

Online sales

With more consumers shopping online than ever before, having an eCommerce platform for your wines can signi cantly expand your reach. Online sales provide the opportunity to tap into new markets, whether you’re targeting wine enthusiasts across the country or internationally. Selling directly to customers online not only o ers convenience but also can provide you with higher margins than traditional retail sales.

Yet, while the potential is enormous, the complexities of online sales can’t be overlooked. Building a robust online store requires technical expertise, ongoing website maintenance, and an understanding of digital marketing strategies like SEO and paid ads. You’ll need to factor in shipping logistics, customer service, and international regulations if you plan to sell abroad.

Considerations: The online space is crowded, and simply having an eCommerce store isn’t enough to guarantee success. The challenges of building tra c, competing with larger retailers, and handling logistics can be overwhelming. Without a focused strategy, it’s easy to get lost in the noise of digital marketing.

Building a successful online sales strategy isn’t just about having a website – it’s about having the right marketing strategy to drive tra c and convert visitors into loyal customers.

Trade sales

While many wineries focus on direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales, trade sales – selling to distributors, retailers, and restaurants – remain a signi cant revenue stream. Building strong relationships with

trade partners can help your wines reach a wider audience, secure bulk orders, and o er steady income.

However, navigating trade sales can be complex. You’ll need to negotiate pricing, manage orders, and understand the dynamics of the B2B market. Retailers and distributors expect consistent quality and competitive pricing, which can sometimes limit your ability to di erentiate your wines.

Considerations: Selling to the trade requires patience and persistence. It often takes time to establish relationships with key trade players, and margins can be smaller than direct-to-consumer sales. Furthermore, selling in bulk can mean relinquishing some control over the customer experience, which can a ect brand loyalty.

Trade sales require a nuanced approach and having the right strategy in place – identifying key trade partners, negotiating pricing and ensuring your wines stand out – will make all the di erence.

Conclusion: The right mix for success

Evaluating your wine estate’s sales options is an essential step in building a successful business. Whether you’re focusing on cellar door sales, wine tourism, online sales, or trade partnerships, each channel has its unique bene ts and challenges. The key to success is not just choosing the right sales channels but integrating them into a cohesive business and marketing strategy.

With the right guidance, you can create a balanced approach that works for your business, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability. If you’re ready to take your winery to the next level, I invite you to join my Vine to Wine programme, where we’ll work together to develop a tailored strategy for your sales options, streamline your operations, and help you build a wine estate that thrives.

ABOUTOUREXPERT

Michelle Knight is a certi ed business strategist and quali ed winemaker, with over 18 years' experience helping businesses grow with clarity and purpose. Through her consultancy, English Wine Pro, she works exclusively with UK wine producers to modernise operations, streamline marketing, and increase sales. Her signature programme, Vine to Wine, is designed to help ambitious wine estates build a strong, sustainable business from grape to glass. For more details, visit: https://go.englishwine.pro/vine-to-wine

Contract

winemaking - where to begin

De ned Wine CEO, Henry Sugden, offers his expert advice when it comes to nding a contract winemaker.

Aligned ideals and opportunities

When looking for contract winemaking, it helps to start early to ensure that what you want and what the winery can provide align. This can include:

The rst consideration when thinking of making wine is where to sell it. Understanding what your market is, what wines they want and at what price point are essential in building a sustainable business model. Part of this will then be working out what variety of grapes to plant, or whether you buy them in; and where the wine will be made –whether you do it yourself or want to contract this out.

People often ask what size works to contract out winemaking but it depends entirely on your business model. Some small producers will make their own wine, others will contract it out; and even at the largest scale, winemaking is often contracted out. There can be multiple reasons for this: access to greater winemaking expertise and equipment; reducing the capital cost of equipment; di culty in obtaining planning permission for a winery; managing winery waste etc.

• What types of wines can the winery make? Not all wineries o er contract winemaking for still and sparkling wine all the way through to labelled bottles, and very few in England can do charmat/’tank method’ fermentation, although there are other providers who this can be outsourced to

• What style of wine does the winery make? Do they have a ‘house style’, and if so do you want this? Who else do they make wine for – will this be competition for you?

• What information does the winery want from you

and vice versa? Do you want to make the wine at their site yourself, or leave it all to them? Or do you want to specify press cuts, yeasts, enzymes etc; or do you have your own consultant winemaker and will the winery accept this?

• What is the minimum amount of wine the winery will make one batch of?

• How do you know when to pick the grapes? Will the winery tell you or vice versa?

• What are the logistics around harvest? How far is the winery from you; how will the grapes get there; will the winery take machine or handpicked fruit; what do you pick into and will they accept this; when is the winery open to receive fruit; how do booking slots work?

• When will your wine be bottled? How much will you be involved in decision making for this? Can the winery also label your wine; when do the labels have to be ready by?

• What equipment does the winery have? What analysis can they perform on the wine; what accreditation do they have, what do you need: none, SALSA or BRC? Do they have HACPP plans in place?

• Are they organic, biodynamic or WineGB Sustainability accredited? Which do you want?

• What bottles and closures can the winery accept? What about packaging?

• Can the winery store your wine in bond? Can they

riddle and disgorge your sparkling wine; what is the minimum run; how do you decide what the dosage will be; what dry goods can you use?

• When does the wine have to be collected? How can it be collected; can the winery dispatch wine direct to your consumers?

• What other services can the winery provide?

• What are the costs? How and when are these invoiced?

De ne your style

Having a clear idea of what wines you want, what your brand will be and where you will sell the wines is fundamental to any winemaking and this is equally applicable to contract winemaking. At De ned we ask vineyards to de ne the style they want – hence the name ‘De ned Wine’ and will go through detailed questions to ensure we capture what people want. Some people have their own consultant winemakers who set speci c winemaking criteria, while others are completely hands o and give us free rein – both approaches and variations in between work.

We like to visit vineyards at least once in the growing season to see how the vineyard is doing but ultimately we don’t get involved in viticulture – this is something for the vineyard manager and agronomist. And although the pick date is probably one of the most important winemaking decisions, we leave this to our clients. Our winemakers can o er advice based on lab analysis and tasting the grapes, but harvest logistics can be as much about when pickers are available, localised weather conditions, transport and other factors. Instead, we remain as exible as we can about booking grapes in and operate 24/7 in peak periods.

Bottling and labelling

We don’t bottle, label or disgorge any wine without con rming a detailed ‘spec sheet’ with our clients, tasting the wines with them to nalise any decisions. However, well before this we will have discussed dry goods, especially bottles. Whilst we provide a range of shapes and colours, people often want something di erent. Unfortunately there are more limitations on bottle shape than you would imagine when looking at glass manufacturers’ glossy brochures.

Di erent sizes may require di erent ‘change parts’ for machines. It is worth remembering that

if you were to buy a bottling or labelling line the manufacturer would ask you to send samples of your bottles and labels so the line can be made to t these. And whilst it might seem ne in year one to hand label all your bottles, the novelty or practicality may have worn o as you scale up. We have also had clients who have bought their own bottles to nd they were actually for spirits (so had an internal bore at the mouth unsuitable for wine corks); and have found a wonderful bottle shape only for the manufacturer to discontinue it after two years.

Having clear communications with the winery, on what they can do and when, will be essential in allowing you to know when you can start selling your wine.

ABOUTOUREXPERT

Following a career in the British Army, working with small companies in Kenya and a stint in the city, Henry Sugden set up De ned Wine in 2018. De ned Wine Ltd is a contract only winery – so no vineyards and no brands of its own, with the focus entirely on adding value to clients, whether they be smaller vineyards looking for a full ‘crate to case’ service or larger vineyards looking for grape pressing and storage.

Top 5 tips to transition to

regenerative viticulture

Vinescapes viticulturist Cameron Roucher outlines ve key actions to start the transition to regenerative viticulture.

Regenerative viticulture is a proactive approach to support the long-term health and performance of your vineyard. It is also an e ective means of reducing reactive costs and measures to mitigate against pests and disease.

With any change, however, there can be some apprehension and concern about the upfront costs, the time it takes for results to take e ect or the con dence to know if you are doing it right. The decision to trial unconventional methods can be a nervous time for owners and vineyard managers.

The important thing to remember is regenerative viticulture is a transitionary practice. It’s better to take time to make changes gradually and in a way which works in unison with the site and its speci c attributes.

The aim is to build soil health and resilience across the site, which can improve the overall performance of grapevines, and to do this in a cost-e ective way.

1. Soil health assessment

The rst step is to understand the current state of your soil. You want to know how much your soil is retaining moisture, how much life is in the soil and if the soil is rich in nutrients. This will determine what you do next. I suggest digging soil pits in various locations across the site. Initially sending

the soil o for analysis will provide a benchmark for ongoing analysis. Analysing soil health can also be done by developing key metrics done by hand and sight – counting earthworms, measuring root depth, conducting slake tests by submerging soil in water and assessing the rhizosphere in soil. These tests will give you the data to measure the impact of the changes you make in the vineyard. Soil health assessments will become an invaluable tool for the team going forward.

2. Ground cover

Reducing soil exposure to the elements is an e ective way to build soil health. Simple grass coverage can maintain structure, and planting cover crops can deliver nutritional bene ts as well as prevent soil erosion. For example, legumes support nitrogen levels, owering plants attract companion insects, and tuber roots like radish plants, can loosen up soil and improve drainage. Your soil health assessment will reveal what cover crops will work best for your site.

Ground covers and a regime of mulching under vine align with a no-till approach to viticulture. With full soil coverage of the vineyard we see better results in moisture management, vine nutrition as well as carbon sequestration.

3. Organic nutrition

There are various forms of organic nutrition. One of the most vital and e ective forms is compost. The end goal of regenerative viticulture is to reduce and eventually remove all chemical or necessary mechanical interventions. Spreading good quality compost under vine delivers organic nutrients and live populations of protozoa, nematodes and other diverse organisms to the vineyard. Studies have shown organic additions can reduce the risk of pathogens and improve vine resistance. Mulch and cover crops similarly bring protective qualities and contribute to resilient natural processes to improve vineyard performance.

4. Ecosystem design

Nature can prove more resilient than industrial processes have led us to believe. Advances in agroforestry have revealed how diversifying agriculture can improve both the quality of food produced and the local environment. Assessing the natural ora and fauna and companion farming opportunities available to suit your site can deliver signi cant bene ts. This option can involve some nancial outlay initially but can pay o by diversifying your income stream. At Vinescapes, we have worked with clients to integrate woodlands, fruit orchards, animal grazing, indigenous plants and wildlife into the design and scale of vineyards. While monocultures are more susceptible to pests and disease, viticulture which works with the local ecosystem, can be more dynamic and productive.

5. Animal integration

The use of livestock or poultry in vineyards can reduce the time and cost of doing tasks like spreading fertiliser or managing pests. Sheep in the vineyard at speci c times of the year can bring valuable nutrients and microbes, minimise grass or cover crop growth and aerate the soil. Ducks, geese, or guinea fowl similarly bring organic matter but also eat potential pests. It is important to use the right animals to suit the vineyard and skills of the team to manage them correctly. It is also possible to contract grazing animals, without the responsibility of ongoing husbandry. This is one practice which might come later in your regenerative journey, but it is one which can bring substantial bene ts to the soil, vines and site each season.

If you’d like to learn more about how regenerative viticulture can improve the performance, productivity and sustainability of your vineyard, Cameron Roucher is delivering a number of workshops this July and August. Each workshop is designed for established vineyard sta and viticulturists. You can nd out more at www.vinescapes.com/training

- place your FREE advert in the

BUILDINGS & MATERIALS

STORAGE canopy, steel frame construction with Nicotarp 9 roof, the structure is used by local authorities, industrial customers, garden centres & growers, 9.6m x 26.84m, originally supplied by www.clovis-canopies.co.uk. £1,000. J Burley Tel 01209 860324 (Cornwall)

STEEL box section, 200mm x 200mm x 12.5mm (7.5m length), surplus to requirements. £635+VAT. A Robinson Tel 07876 711477 (Bedfordshire)

TRENCH cover steel plates (3), each one 0.5” thick, two pieces are 3’ x 3’, one piece is 3’ x 2’6”, good condition, for a larger piece see my other ad, collection only. £60 ono. T Gallimore Tel 07849 405044 (Staffordshire)

TRENCH cover steel plate 6’6” x 3’2”, 0.5” thick, good condition, see my other ad for 3 smaller plates, collection only. £100 ono. T Gallimore Tel 07849 405044 (Staffordshire)

LARGE dog kennel, 11’ x 5’, new felt roof. £350. R Anderson Tel 07887 484733/01366 728583 (Norfolk)

CROP PROTECTION

CROW/MAGPIE Larsen trap, built as ladder to trap wild bird predators, wood surrounded by rabbit wire then doubled up with black nylon netting, planed stained wood, good hinges, 240 W x 193 D x 182cm (6’) at highest point, no longer required. £280. R Rayner Tel 07808 066655 (Cambridgeshire)

EQUESTRIAN

DAF LF45 150 non HGV, low mileage, 12 months MOT, rear ramp with loading doors, adjustable partitions for 4 ponies or 3 horses, day living, cut through tilt cab for easy maintenance, smart little box, tack lockers, ideal for pony club, hunting. £750. S March Tel 07860 835995 (Essex)

FENCING & GATES

SECURITY gate, 10’ x 5’, very strong, professionally built, ideal for farm or home. £150. R Anderson Tel 07887 484733/01366 728583 (Norfolk)

GENERATORS

PTO generator, 75KVA, hardly used, now upgraded. £750+VAT ono to clear. S Dann Tel 07770 594545 (Norfolk)

GRASS MACHINERY

2023 John Deere X948 diesel ride on lawn mower, 54” deck, 4wd, 2ws, front light kit, factory installed mulch deck, 470hrs, c/w sealed book pack, 2 keys. £13,995+VAT. A Foster Tel 07776 339220 (Suffolk)

KUHN GA3201 single rotor rake, 2017 model, low acreage off small farm, always stored indoors, excellent condition. £3,250+VAT ono. C Gaden Tel 07927 343092 (Warwickshire)

SCAG Mower, 2013 Turf tiger, 61” rotary deck, 1857hrs, virtually new tyres, just been serviced. £6,500+VAT. T Gasson Tel 07557 224955 (Warwickshire)

VOTEX 9’ Topper, in tidy condition, no rot unlike most, good bearings, turns freely with no play or noise, will go straight to work. £975. S Burbidge Tel 07517 386285 (Lincolnshire)

SITREX finishing topper, Cat 1 3 point linkage, PTO driven, 1.8m, triple blade, c/w depth wheels, gwo. £750 ono. M Fisher Tel 07970 894244 (Cambridgeshire)

KUHN BP280 flail mower, 2017, 2.8m cutting width, hyd side shift, whale tail flails, 2 rows stationary shredding plates, large diameter rear roller, 540 or 1000rpm PTO, 6 spline PTO connector, vgc, selling as now have front mtd flail. £4,250+VAT ono. C Whitton Tel 07957 870362 (Suffolk)

EINBOCK 4.5m hyd fold grass harrows, choice of 2 sets, both need some tines, one set 50 & the other 89 (£2.28 a tine from Kramp), do a deal on the pair, tidy frames & beds. £1,800+VAT ono. M Jeffrey Tel 07802 722408 (North Yorkshire)

WESTWOOD T1600 38” cut sweeper collector, gwo. £1,275. no VAT. M Fisher Tel 07970 894244 (Cambridgeshire)

AMAZONE flail collector, light use, purchased July 23. £7,500+VAT. A Manning Tel 07592 842147 (Cambridgeshire)

KRONE Swadro 42 rotary hay rake with 3rd wheel, good order. £4,750+VAT. D Smart Tel 01223 861482 (Cambridgeshire)

FIELD roller, 2m wide. £250. N Atkins Tel 07956 167510 (Leicestershire)

PZ Haybob 360 tedder & rake, used by owner only, has done 20 acres, barn stored & is just like new. £3,750 ono. R Brown Tel 07778 041144 (Buckinghamshire)

Haybob 300, 2007, one owner from new, barn stored. Offers. R Tebbett Tel 01543 686215/01543 673182 (Staffordshire)

KUHN

RECO FELLA KM 191 hay mower, 1.9m cut. £800+VAT ono. R Symes Tel 07776 263896 (Suffolk)

PZ Haybob 300 in working order, little used for last 10yrs, but stored indoors. £375+VAT ono. R Symes Tel 07776 263896 (Suffolk)

WESTWOOD T1200 lawnmower, 12hp, stopped using due to rotten bed, missing front wheels, please text if my phone won’t ring. £100 ono. H Pearce Tel 07947 344310 (Essex)

CUB Cadet XT2 ride on mower, 2018, 42” (106cm) deck, Tight Turn Xtreme, recently serviced costing £840, very good condition, only 38hrs. £2,500+VAT. N White Tel 07778 847454 (Gloucestershire)

RANSOMES HR300 ride on mower, 2012, road registered, full V5, 35hp Kubota turbo engine, 4600hrs, recently serviced in March, drives & cuts perfect, ready for work, delivery can be arranged. £8,250+VAT. L Robson Tel 07719 561629 (North Yorkshire)

2007 Spearhead 420 topper, one owner from new, first used 2009, new side skids & anti scalp dishes last year, 4.2m wide but folds up for narrow gates & lanes, good condition. £4,750+VAT ono. M Lake Tel 07767 265716 (Hertfordshire)

JOHN Deere 8400 Commercial Triple Cylinder mower, 4wd hydrostatic drive, 10” 6 blade units, foldable roll bar, turf tyres, 1054hrs, 2015, w/ lights & beacon, excellent condition. £10,000+VAT. P Hirst Tel 07712 676012 (Lincolnshire)

PZ Haybob instruction manual and spare parts list. S Price Tel 07968 010981 (Pembrokeshire)

HEDGING & FORESTRY

McCONNEL PA 4330 hedge cutter, purchased new in 2021, barn stored, new hammer blades & bolts in Sept 24 & hardly used since, joystick controlled, excellent condition. £9,100+VAT. A Manning Tel 07592 842147 (Cambridgeshire)

NEW in unopened boxes of 250, clear with brown tint tree sparrols/tree tubes, six boxes available, can post at cost. A Burton Tel 01692 651021 (Norfolk)

HYCRACK log splitter, PTO driven, 3 point linkage mounted, owned from new, spare roll pins, excellent condition. £400 no VAT; also Truncator 6 fold saw horse available, fast, easy, safe way to cut logs, excellent condition. £100 no VAT. R Lintott Tel 07799 473374 (Cornwall)

McCONNEL saw bench & log splitter, 2 spare saw blades, both good working order, can load them, collection only. £500 ono. T Gallimore Tel 07849 405044 (Staffordshire)

supplying

Whatever

DYMAX 3471D5 16” tree shear, unused from new, on 65mm pins for use with 14–16t excavator, for sale on behalf of retired contractor. £15,000+VAT ono. A Beddall Tel 07836 732200 (Buckinghamshire)

LAND/PROPERTY

GRAZING land required, all acreage considered, good rates paid, short or long term. J Harbour Tel 07974 295535 (Essex)

LIVESTOCK

LIMOUSIN X bulling heifers, 12–18 months, for sale due to herd reduction. S Jaques Tel 01754 763319 (Lincolnshire)

STOCK pedigree Limousin bull, aged 5yrs, for sale due to herd reduction. S Jaques Tel 01754 763319 (Lincolnshire)

LIMOUSIN X & British Blue X in calf cows for sale due to herd reduction, varying ages & calving dates, in calf to pedigree Limousin or Blonde bull. S Jaques Tel 01754 763319 (Lincolnshire)

YEARLING Boer Goats 2x, Does 1x, wether. Wormed, Lamivac, Crovect, Pure Boer, handled regularly do anything for a bucket of food & would make great pets. Great for estate maintenance in woodland, rough ground. Buyers require CPH for transfer. £485. P Weston Tel 07947 923844 (Northamptonshire)

PEARSON complete milking parlour, 2022, 14/28 with provisions to go up to 24/48, ACR, auto wash, compressor for a/drying & milk purge, wash Bomb, ambic teat equipment, auto chemical applicator, & lots more, viewings welcomed. £75000+VAT ono J Perring Tel 07870 655539 (Cornwall)

PEDIGREE Aberdeen Angus bulls, choice of 4, all homebred to pedigree herd in West Sussex, fully registered with some top breeding in their pedigrees, TB4 area, closed herd, previously fully accredited health scheme, no history on any disease. £2,000. D Bradbury Tel 07758 819761 (West Sussex)

PEDIGREE Aberdeen Angus heifer, fully pedigree registered, just the one available as all the others were bulls last year, halter broken with a calm nature, disease free herd in TB4.area, some top breeding in her pedigree. £1,250. D Bradbury Tel 07758 819761 (West Sussex)

PEDIGREE in calf Aberdeen Angus cow, strong with fantastic breeding, only selling as I want to keep her previous bull calf as my next stock bull, fantastic temperament, very friendly & halter broken, scanned in calf for late Oct/early Nov. £2,000. D Bradbury Tel 07758 819761 (West Sussex)

VALIS ewe lambs (2), both pure bred, one registered, one not, both bottle fed, very tame, ready to leave now, contact for more details. £1,000 for both please. S Taylor Tel 07355 075603 (North Yorkshire)

2-YEAR OLD beautiful pure bred Spitti ewe for sale, not registered, very tame, can leave straight away, contact me for more information. £1,500. S Taylor Tel 07355 075603 (North Yorkshire)

ANGLO NUBIAN x French Alpine milking/ pet kids, 7 available (4 girls 3 wethers), High Health herd & parents all up to date with vaccs & worming. E Bunting Tel 07889 640199 (Essex) LIVESTOCK

EQUIPMENT

IAE Yokes for 5 cows (3), 10’5” long. £310+VAT. N White Tel 07885 746877 (Gloucestershire)

GALEBREAKER spring operated roller screens, one 15’ wide, three 12’ wide, one 7’ wide, average condition. £1,500+VAT. N White Tel 07885 746877 (Gloucestershire)

SYMMS calf dehorning crate, hardly used. £250+VAT ono. N White Tel 07885 746877 (Gloucestershire)

HOUGHTON Parkhouse artic livestock trailer, 40’, double deck, previously used for pigs, 1996. £3,000+VAT. J Havers Tel 07788 813276 (Suffolk)

MACHINERY

SATAKE Alpha Scan 2, selling a 5 lane, colour sorter for spares or repairs. Machine turns on and runs, has recently had a service. New bulbs and some new injectors fitted, was used on a mobile and struggled with variations in temp and b, 2015. J Gilbert Tel 07879 316101 (Suffolk)

MATERIALS HANDLERS

JCB 541-70 Agri Super, 2011 plate, 8100hrs, good tyres, Smooth Ride, hydraulic locking push, etc. £19,995+VAT. A Skelton Tel 07989 056570 (Lincolnshire)

MANITOU MLT 725 telehandler, J reg 1991, 4778hrs, 7m, 2.5t lift, 2ws, 4ws, crab steering, starts, runs & drives well, c/w forks. £9,750. W Parsons Tel 07734 949482 (Cambridgeshire)

ROLLER conveyor, ex-military, very heavy, approx 2.4m x 38cm, hooks on one end, weighs approx 75kg, rollers have bearings, asking price is per unit (photo shows two units). £175/unit. J Berry Tel 07715 231291 (Cheshire)

PROFORGE bag lifter, good condition. £600+VAT. A Langford Tel 01371 870277 (Essex)

CLAAS Scorpion 7040 Varipower 2008, brand new transmission fitted @£10,000, 2 of 4 hydraulic pipes down the boom replaced, 6000hrs, new machine forces sale, regularly serviced, good condition. £30,000+VAT ono. A Turner Tel 07977 910501 (Essex)

STEEL Box section, 150mm x 150mm x 10mm (7.5m length), new. £449+VAT. A Robinson Tel 07876 711477 (Bedfordshire)

WALK-IN lorry freezer body, 11m by 2.4m, further insulation added near new 3 phase freezer equipment, currently in use, available mid August, can deliver, just plug in & go. £6,000+VAT ovno. S Dann Tel 07770 594545 (Norfolk)

ORCHARD EQUIPMENT

PRECISION FARMING

JCB 532-60 Agri, excellent example, 2296hrs, 2022 (72 plate), tool carrier headstock, brand new tyres, c/w one set of pallet forks (pictured), well-maintained & in excellent working condition. £56,500+VAT ono. W Smaldon Tel 07513 234610 (Devon)

MITSUBISHI FD15 forklift truck, 1.5T lift, double mast to 3m high,.6807hrs on the clock. £2,750+VAT ono. S Laslett Tel 07764 291738 (Kent)

BRIDGE Engineering Ltd forklift hydraulic tipping bucket, 6’ wide x 3’ high x 4’7” deep, two double acting hydraulic cylinders, excellent condition, hardly used. £2,750. W Parsons Tel 07734 949482 (Cambridgeshire)

MX/CHILTON headstock, surplus to requirements as upgraded to euro. £150 ono. M Davey Tel 07702 580669 (Suffolk)

PATCHWORK sat nav system, vgc. £450+VAT. A Langford Tel 01371 870277 (Essex)

TRIMBLE Nav 3 controller, in perfect condition. £1,600+VAT. J Wilson Tel 07710 427348 (North Yorkshire)

FJDYNAMICS AT1 for sale due to upgrading, 2023 model, has been updated & is ready to reinstall, c/w 2 domes & 10” screen, was fitted to a New Holland 200hp tractor, c/w electric steering wheel, RTK unlocked. R Wheeler Tel 07973 292701/01562 770088 (Worcestershire)

JOHN DEERE 5105GF

2021, 2404hrs, 24F/12R Power Reverser 40kph transmission, 380/70R28 – 280/70R20, a/c cab, front linkage.

PREMIUM USED MACHINE

Stk No A1076654 £45,000

KRAMER KL25.5T 2023, 11hrs, 30kph, MITAS 325/70R18 tyres, quick coupler hydraulics, Kramer carriage & pallet tines.

Stk No. 81068630 POA

TEHNOS MU150LW Rear mounted, hydraulic offset.

We have a large selection of various size toppers in stock to meet your needs.

Stk No 21068396 £3,083

JOHN DEERE 5100M 2022, 496hrs, 32F/16R Power Reverser 40kph transmission, 480/88R34 – 400/80R24 Nokian tyres.

Stk No. 81073832 £59,950

JOHN DEERE 5105GF 2021, 1991hrs, 24F/12R Power Reverser 40kph transmission, 380/70R28 – 280/70R20, a/c cab, front linkage & PTO.

PREMIUM USED MACHINE

Stk No A1079642 POA

JOHN DEERE XUV865M DUE IN SHORTLY 2022,1,000hrs (TBC), Olive & Black, Maxxis BigHorn tyres, hydraulic tip cargo box.

Stk No TBC POA

Discover high-quality cordless tools from Spanish brand Keeper, including the versatile KP25 Cordless Battery-Powered Pruners.

Designed to prevent the wrist and hand strain common with manual pruners, they make light work of all your pruning tasks. With a 22mm cutting capacity and a 72 watt lithium battery, they o er 3 hours of battery life. Each pruner comes with a battery, charger, tools and a 2 year warranty (1 year for the battery).

SPARE PARTS

TWO Massey Ferguson engines, one 4 cylinder Perkins, one 3 cylinder Perkins, working order, price negotiable, collection from Reading (RG1), please call for more information. T O’Riordan Tel 07770 470889 (Berkshire)

SPRAYERS

Power nebulisers are ideal for large, dense or di cult to access areas in vineyards and orchards. The 11 L Motor-Powered Backpack Nebuliser and Mist Applicator has a Kawasaki engine that produces a powerful, directed fog of nely atomised liquid or powdered product 18 m horizontally and 12 m vertically.

MANKAR® spraying systems o er professional, eco-friendly weed control using minimal herbicides or herbicide blends without water. They utilise ULV technology to evenly distribute a small amount of active product, allowing for controlled droplet application (CDA).

SPREADERS

VICON Rotaflow, 12m spread, headland tilt ram, 2 bag hopper, vgc. £1,200+VAT. A Langford Tel 01371 870277 (Essex) LELY Centerliner Supabowl, 24m, good condition, holds 2000kg. £850+VAT. M Harrold Tel 07850 474657 (Norfolk)

AGRISPREAD AS2120 SC fertiliser & lime spreader, 2024, section controlled full Isobus, single belt machine, roll over sheet, work lights, 3 sets of discs, lime up to 18m, fertiliser up to 48m, immaculate. £55,000+VAT. D Voutt Tel 07900 818810 (Cambridgeshire)

KRM EX Trend fertiliser spinner, holds 4 bags, selection of discs & spares, running gear & discs good, but has corrosion in the hopper, sold for spares or repair, can send pictures via WhatsApp. £200. B Robinson Tel 07740 683113 (Gloucestershire)

STRAW & HAY

STANDING Hay For Sale. 60 ac Standing Hay, historically has made sweet hay, no fertiliser used. Approx. 15 ac last grazed by sheep in February 2025, the balance has not been grazed in past year. £35 ono N Edwards Tel 07775 742666 (Kent)

TANKS & BOWSERS

10,000-LITRE bowser (2200gal), gate valve, c/w filter, transfer pipes, sight gauge, filling/access hatch, super single tyres, 10 stud wheels. £500+VAT. M Gemmill Tel 07779 223458 (Essex)

WATER bowser & trough, approx 2000L, tyres a bit old & not the prettiest thing in the yard, but will still do a job, can send more photos via WhatsApp if required. B Robinson Tel 07740 683113 (Gloucestershire)

1340-LITRE bunded diesel tank, now surplus to requirements, c/w electric pump & low level gauge. £500 ono. M Davey Tel 07702 580669 (Suffolk)

TWO 5000L bunded fuel tanks, cylindrical, upright approx 6’ diameter, f/w meters, electric pumps & filters, sale due to retirement, please call for pictures or more information, no delivery available. £1,750. P Clarke Tel 07850 710996 (Suffolk)

TRACKS

9RX tracks (4), 2019, used, 30% tread left, Camso AG 6500 E30BH02877 0318-184349 R554229. £1,950+VAT ono. H Shaw Tel 07990 632309 (Bedfordshire)

TRACTORS

HERE we have for sale my Massey Ferguson tractor 4709, owned since 2022 but done only 38hrs in this time taking the total hours to only 146. c/w air brakes, air con, weights etc, great condition, 90hp, 3 cylinder J Pickering Tel 07967 964794 (North Yorks)

2018 Tym T433 with MX loader c/w forks & bucket, 320hrs, brand new Winton flail topper, superb condition, genuine reason for sale. £18,000. R Sammons Tel 07985 256009 (Warwickshire)

VALTRA G135A & loader, 220hrs, 2021 71 plate, light work, barn stored, excellent condition, grass tyres available separately. £85,000+VAT. A Manning Tel 07592 842147 (Cambridgeshire)

2010 John Deere 5090R, 6100hrs, very tidy & well looked after loader tractor, decent tyres, regularly looked after & serviced. £28,500 ono. J Keller Tel 07850 429719 (Warwickshire)

JOHN Deere 4066R compact tractor, 2022 72 plate, owned from new, barn stored, turf tyres. 2 speed PTO, radio, air con, 619 eng/408 PTO hrs, ceramic coated, excellent condition (hedge cutter not included). £35,600+VAT. A Manning Tel 07592 842147 (Cambridgeshire)

2012 Case IH Maxxum 110 4wd, 6730hrs, 40kph top speed, excellent condition, new tyres all round, 4.5 l 16 valve FPT engine provides 112hp. £25.750. A Dochard Tel 07749 951898 (Norfolk)

JOHN Deere 4066R compact tractor, 2022 72 plate, owned from new, barn stored, turf tyres, 2 speed PTO, radio, air con, 615 engine/271 PTO hrs, ceramic coated, excellent condition. £35,750+VAT. A Manning Tel 07592 842147 (Cambridgeshire)

NEW Holland TD95D HC high clearance version, 2005, 4wd, 4000hrs on same farm from new, 3 spools, 12x12 manual box with shuttle, tyres 70%, 95bhp, 2 speed PTO, good condition. £13,500+VAT. H Duncalfe Tel 07798 700927 (Cambridgeshire)

2022 Massey Ferguson 7719 Dyna VT, 1033hrs, Trimble guidance, 4 rear hydraulic spools, 2 front hydraulic spools, front PTO, excellent condition, warranty til 18/08/2027 with any AGCO dealer. £95,000+VAT ono. S Baker Tel 07585 442177 (Suffolk)

McCORMICK CX95 with Quicke loader, 2004, 4.4L Perkins engine, XtraShift 3-stage Powershift, 7600hrs, new hydraulic pump Dec 2023, reliable, well-maintained, light use last 3yrs, ready for work. £15,950+VAT. T David Tel 07817 579636 (Cornwall)

2011 John Deere 6930P, 10370hrs, serviced & ready to go, nice spec tractor, 50K Autopower Command Arm, front linkage. £37,500+VAT. J Woodward Tel 07960 866025 (Leicestershire)

CLAAS Arion 610 CIS, 2022, with 700hrs on clock, owned from new, front & cab suspension front linkage, in very good condition, genuine reason for sale, remainder of 5yr warranty subject to getting it transferred. £70,000+VAT ono. D Lunn Tel 07941 072957 (Cambridgeshire)

NEW Holland Boomer floatation tyres (2), 300/65-12, one tyre has a repair so suitable for a spare. £200 ono. S Godwin Tel 07970 625051 (Wiltshire)

NEW Holland Boomer front weights & carrier wanted. S Godwin Tel 07970 625051 (Wiltshire)

NEW Holland T7.225 Auto Command CVT, 2018, 50kph + air, Terra-glide active susp f/axle, 4 r/remote valves, 160L/min hyd pump, f/3pt linkage, 8 LED w/lights, Isobus, auto-guidance to RTK, Intelliview IV, 16.9R30 + 20.8R42 Michelins. £67000+VAT. P Hirst Tel 07712 676012 (Lincolnshire)

2012 John Deere 8360R, 5000hrs, full engine rebuild last year by Tuckwells (£17k invoice available), nice tidy, very well looked after, cheap HP, loaded with inner & outer rear wheel weights, front weight included (no tombstone). £90,000+VAT ono. A Turner Tel 07977 910501 (Essex)

JOHN DEERE 4410, manual 4wd, power reverser, 3343hrs, quick release loader, only 60hrs on new clutch, turf tyres, double acting spools, diff lock, clevis drawbar. P Waspe Tel 07428 886226 (Suffolk)

TRAILERS

AS MARSTON grain trailer, 12T, sprung drawbar, hydraulic tailgate, super single tyres, a bit untidy but still works. £2,800+VAT. M Harrold Tel 07850 474657 (Norfolk)

MARSHALL 8T hydraulic tipping grain trailer with manual tailgate & chute, very tidy condition for age & only been used for grain, has had short wooden top extensions fitted which can be removed, tyres fine, slight leak on one of the rams. £2,250. J Jordan Tel 07535 990066 (Suffolk)

BAILEY orchard/vineyard trailer, 2014, 6.4m long x 2.14m wide, good condition. £5,250+VAT. T Stephens Tel 07926 421842 (Essex)

TIPPING TRAILER, 1970’S Grain trailer converted into a dump trailer, tyres good, twin tipping rams, Good condition. £1,950+VAT ono A Robinson Tel 07876 711477 (Bedfordshire)

MARSHALL QM16 SILAGE TRAILER, 2006, fully refurbished in 2021 and little used since, grain door also, extra top side pieces, excellent condition..

£9,750+VAT ono A Robinson Tel 07876 711477 (Bedfordshire)

1995 grain trailer, 8t, made by F Sweeting & Sons, super single tyres, commercial axles, brakes, lights, hydraulic release tailboard, grain chute, good condition, 2 available.

£2,000+VAT. M Gemmill Tel 07779 223458 (Essex)

NORTON ex silage tipper trailer, good condition, good tyres, lights need attention, approx size D-1.1m, W-2.3m, L-3.7m. £2,200. S Younger Tel 07963 414468 (Shropshire)

2013 Bailey 26’ flatbed trailer, in very good condition & ready to work, sprung drawbar, Alliance 560/45/22.5 tyres, hydraulic brakes, LED lights all round, Tilly Pass dated December 2024, any questions please get in touch. £6,750+VAT. H Gillingwater Tel 07468 571051 (Norfolk)

RICHARD WESTERN Hydrokit digital load indicator/trailer weigher, P/N RWHR01V1 SF14/16, 2024, bought & installed but never used as weighbridge set up in time for harvest, 2 available. £1,200+VAT. J Havers Tel 07788 813276 (Suffolk)

BRIAN LEGG 6T trailer, nearly new tyres, good chassis, good tipping ram, needs new metalwork on the buck, no tailgate. £350+VAT ono. H Standley Tel 07778 682909 (Suffolk)

SMALL wooden trailer with tarpaulin hooped roof, Indespension wheel axles, 155-R12/8PR tyres with spare, wooden ramp, lights, no brakes, in good condition, max height 1.84m, width 1.57m, total length 4.4m, box length 3.1m. £375+VAT ono. J Nott Tel 07957 146325 (Norfolk)

BRIAN LEGG hydraulic tipping tractor trailer, f/w 4.5T buck, needs some work, plus tyres are poor as has not been used for a few years. £450. J Jordan Tel 07535 990066 (Suffolk)

MARSHALL 8T grain trailer with manual tailgate & chute, excellent condition for age & only been used for grain, has had short wooden side extensions fitted but these can easily be removed, tyres OK & rams weep a little. £2,950. J Jordan Tel 07535 990066 (Suffolk)

TYRES & WHEELS

CASE row crop wheels 380/90R46 rear, 380/85R30 front, tyres in excellent condition £2,650+VAT. R Waddelow Tel 07973 615772 (Cambridgeshire)

STOCKS box profile rowcrop wheels, 12.4/52 rear, 12.4/36 front. £1,850+VAT. R Waddelow Tel 07973 615772 (Cambridgeshire)

MICHELIN Axobib 800x70xR38 (2) used, 30% tread left, still in very good condition. £500 ono. H Shaw Tel 07990 632309 (Bedfordshire)

ROWCROP wheels, full set, Continental 320/90 R32 80%, 340/85 R48 80%, to fit JD 6930 or similar, on fixed rims, always stored under cover, now surplus to requirements, more photos available on request. £2,850+VAT ono. J Cowell Tel 07768 945423 (Essex)

BRIDGESTONE tyres (8) off Toyota Hilux, only done delivery miles, 265/60R18. £550+VAT ono. S Russell Tel 07771 806831 (Lincolnshire)

BRAND new Turf Tamer AT tyres for John Deere Gator, one rear AT25x12.9 56F & one front 255/75-8 MST 74F. £100 ono. N White Tel 07778 847454 (Gloucestershire)

FOUR new trailer tyres & rims, 245/70R19.5, Greforce. £400. V Ponder Tel 01159 655970 (Nottinghamshire)

STOCKS 14x30 dual wheels, pair, f/w 5% good Continental 540/65R30 tyres, 4 clamps/wheel,

ISUZU

£6,900 no VAT. J Smith Tel 07825 597911 (West Midlands)

MAN

RADIATOR for Daihatsu FourTrak. £50. D Macer Tel 07974 646284/01509 880323 (Nottinghamshire)

DAVID Brown 770 Selectamatic, first regd 1969, one owner from new, until I purchased in 2016, fully restored 2013, has purpose built transport box, have shown it round various vintage tractor shows, c/w V5, excellent condition. £6,250 ono. J Haigh Tel 07710 471481 (Essex)

CLEMENS double sided vineyard cultivator with electric control box as well as the sensor arms, only used several times, dry stored & oiled after use, rotating blades in good condition, located Reading. £12,000. A Hunt Tel 07538 817507 (Berkshire)

MASSEY Ferguson 35X, 1960, V5 reg no 3 cyl, dismantled, complete needs engine or rebuild picked up on liner, tidy, original condition all working previously S Bygraves Tel 07973 117993 (Cambridgeshire)

VINTAGE DWS industrial carton stapler, solidly constructed & built to last, springs in place & jaws are good, in working order. £50. J Berry Tel 07715 231291 (Cheshire)

HORSESHOE wall hanging basket brackets, in excellent condition. S Price Tel 07968 010981 (Pembrokeshire)

IRON cart wheel bands, various sizes, ideal as a ornamental feature. S Price Tel 07968 010981 (Pembrokeshire)

stone, 2’ x 4”, excellent condition, like new, ideal garden feature. S Price Tel 07968 010981 (Pembrokeshire)

1957 Fordson Major, unfinished project due to illness, original registration document, new pistons, liners, big ends, crank shaft re-polished, new clutch, head skimmed, rear axle oil seals replaced, numerous other parts available, tyres good. £1,850. S Ash Tel 07831 497328 (Norfolk)

WANTED

STILL LOOKING for David Brown/Case 1290 or 1390 or 1394 with loader in tidy condition. P Jackson Tel 01422 243914 (West Yorkshire) LOOKING for a Case 1394 with loader, must be correct. P Jackson

S March Tel 07860 835995 (Essex) TRUCKMAN

c/w

rear window. £40 to take away. B Robinson Tel 07740 683113 (Gloucestershire)

1999 Land Rover Defender 110 Hi-cat TDi, good condition, 152,000mls. £10,500+VAT. D Smart - PRICE??? Tel 01223 861482 (Cambridgeshire)

2004 Isuzu Rodeo, lots of miles & a few cosmetic challenges but has a MOT until next January, Ifor Williams canopy & tow pack, would make a useful cheap runaround for a farm or shoot. £2,000+VAT. B Robinson Tel 07740 683113 (Gloucestershire)

BRAUN ROLLHACKE double-sided, mid-mounted vineyard cultivator with double blades, very good condition, always dry stored & oiled after use, located Reading. £6,000. A Hunt Tel 07538 817507 (Gloucestershire)

VINTAGE

& CLASSIC

VINTAGE carton stapler, heavy & solidly constructed, jaws are good & springs in place, in working order. £50. J Berry Tel 07715 231291 (Cheshire)

1953 Diesel Fordson Major, all new tyres, complete new wings, bonnet, nose cone & base, runs well. £3,500. M Watts Tel 01462 813543 (Bedfordshire)

ANTIQUE clothes wringer, 1940s, fully restored & working, would make a great garden ornament or shop display fitting, buyer to collect & pay cash. £185. G Ulley Tel 07798 872221 (South Yorkshire)

SHARPENING stone 14” x 2”, ideal garden feature, good condition. S Price Tel 07968 010981 (Pembrokeshire)

THREE Lister D 10162 stationary engines & one Petter stationary engine on trolley, for spares or repair, 1920–1940. J Hodge Tel 07815 698617 (Essex)

DAVID BROWN 996, 1976 model, runs perfectly well, rough around the edges but does everything it should, c/w loader which is now connected & has bucket & forks, great machine. £4,500 ono. W Murfet Tel 07925 402141 (Cambridgeshire)

JOHN Deere 2130, N reg, 1974, 6211hrs, starts, runs & drives well, c/w loader. £4,795. W Parsons Tel 07734 949482 (Cambridgeshire)

ESSEX hay wagon, made in Greenstead Green, measurements 11’ long, 6’ wide, 58” wheels at the back & 48” on the front, 6’ high at the back & 5’4” at the front, one front wheel needs attention & bed needs restoration. J Hodge Tel 07815 698617 (Essex)

SHARPENING

What’s new in apples? From red esh to Peach Schnapps:

been around for a long time, but it's very exciting that we’ve now got a licence to grow it in the UK. Most of the plantations are relatively young, so our production is climbing, but quite quickly now,” Jeremy notes.

Cosmic Crisp® – This was originally bred in America at Washington State University. “We started testing it some years ago and we’re now about to start our rst commercial plantings in the UK. In excess of 20 million trees have been planted in North America, which, to my knowledge, is one of the single largest plantings of a new apple.”

Explaining the variety name, Jeremy says: “The skin is quite dark red and the lenticels, the spots on the apples, almost look like stars against the sky, hence cosmic – and, no surprise, it’s a crisp apple.”

We spoke to Jeremy Linsell of Worldwide Fruit Ltd, about some of the most exciting new apple varieties on the horizon.

Despite a number of exciting new apple selections in the pipeline, Jeremy notes that Jazz® remains one of the best apples on the high street. “It really does take some beating. We often benchmark potential new selections against Jazz®, and quite often Jazz® is still coming out as the top apple in terms of its consistency and eating quality.”

Nonetheless, there’s no shortage of new developments, which he says is important to ensure apples keep pace with other fruit sectors, he adds. “Our competitors aren’t just apples, our competitors are other fruits. We’ve seen innovation coming in so many other fruit forms – there’s a lot more blueberries on the supermarket shelves, you've got yellow kiwis, red kiwis, candy oss- avoured grapes.”

Some of the most exciting selections include:

Kissabel® – This is an overarching brand for a selection of red esh

apples. It’s been hugely successful, and also has a role in getting children to eat apples. Worldwide Fruit is one of the partners in Ifored, a group of partners around the world, which has been breeding speci cally for apples with a red esh for the past 14 years.

“Globally, we now have six selections with red skin and red esh, and three with yellow skin and red esh, but we’re continuing to evaluate other selections and there will be more coming forward,” Jeremy explains. “That kind of model where a breeding programme will sell more than one variety under one brand is becoming relatively common.”

Ladina® – Worldwide Fruit also commercialised Ladina®, a variety grown exclusively for Marks & Spencer and sold under the brand name Scarlett Paradise. “It’s a unique, really sweet juicy apple that tastes like Peach Schnapps – it’s just fantastic,” Jeremy says.

Tutti® – This year is also the rst commercial harvest of Tutti® from the Hot Climate Partnership in Spain. It’s been planted with three di erent growers in the UK and will be the rst apple variety bred speci cally for climate challenges to be delivered to the UK market.

Pink Lady® – “Pink Lady®’s obviously

It also stores very well – up to 14 months in America – which is very important for giving consumers a consistent eating experience. The trialling stage is only just complete in America but it’s hoped this could be replicated in the UK.

Disease resistance

Disease resistance is also top of the list for breeding programmes, with Worldwide Fruit involved with half a dozen key breeding programmes in North America, New Zealand, and Spain, as well as Europe and even the UK, though the details of the UK programme is currently under wraps. The aim is to nd varieties with resistance to pests or disease, or both – but which still deliver on eating quality.

When it comes to commercialising new selections, Jeremy emphasises the importance of rigorous testing. “It’s important that we identify the particular nuances or the challenges of any particular variety so when we move into the third stage, which is commercially

ABOUTOUREXPERT

growing them, we can give the technical support to our growers.”

Future apples

Commenting on what the apples of the future might look like, Jeremy stresses the importance of brands. “Once people have a good experience with a brand they’ll identify with it and that’s what they’ll buy. So it’s really important that you hang that name or that brand around that experience.”

He also believes that gene editing will eventually become the norm to speed up the apple breeding process, but the concept is not yet widely acceptable to the consumer. For now, he concludes: “We’ve got a rich pipeline of some really fantastic apples coming that have been bred traditionally.”

Jeremy Linsell studied agricultural engineering and won a scholarship to study at the Flock House Institute in New Zealand. Back in the UK he became a manager of a top fruit farm, before risking it all to buy the farm in 2001. Realising the future lay in varietal innovation, he invested heavily in new varieties and took on a part-time role heading up Worldwide Fruit Ltd’s variety pipeline strategy. He also represents the industry in global roles such as the Hot Climate Partnership in Catalonia, and is a director of Ifored.

Kissabel® Ladina®

Cosmic Crisp®

Specialist Fendt tractors and innovative machinery from leading manufacturers, backed by 50 years of expertise. Trusted by fruit and vine growers nationwide.