Research for the Dutch Organic Fruit Sector

Apples and pears are the most important organic fruit crops, with 244 and 93 hectares respectively. The production of small soft fruits such as currants, berries and brambles is on the rise (114 hectares). A much smaller acreage dedicated to organic cherries and plums. Around 50% of the total Dutch organic fruit production is exported.

Research will continue to focus on the prevention and control of the main diseases in apples and pears: scab and black rot. As copper products cannot be used, and most other products are relatively weak, much is expected of new scab-resistant apple varieties. In recent years a few of these varieties have already been developed and brought to market. This process is complex and much can still be improved and learned. In recent years research for the organic fruit sector also focuses on the effective use of new biological products against scab.

Dutch wineries provide a relatively new field of research. To improve wine production and quality, vine varieties that are suitable to Dutch circumstances need to be developed and tested.