South African Apple Producer Rescues 25-Year-Old Gala Apple Orchard with Pre-Harvest Applications of Harvista™

Theddan Farms, a leading South African apple producer, has become a pioneer in the use of Harvista™ 1.3 SC, a pre-harvest treatment. The veteran apple producer started using the product in 2018 to extend tree growth time for vastly improved color and size. It not only saved the company’s Gala orchard from the chainsaw, but also made it their most profitable, with an increased income of R200,000 to R300,000 (ZAR)*.

Theddan Farms turned to AgroFresh and Harvista 1.3 SC to help improve the company’s 350 hectares (nearly 865 acres) of fruit, as poor color was a concern for their Gala apple block.

Ian Cunningham, managing director for Theddan Farms, said:

“We’ve been using Harvista 1.3 SC as a staple on 40% of our crops and sometimes 50% with it being bi-color, and we’ve been very happy with the results. The first orchard we applied Harvista to allowed us to farm certain blocks for longer while making them better economically.”

Since Harvista 1.3 SC expands the harvest window, AgroFresh customers like Theddan can improve labor efficiency and increase quality, a combination that can drive significant bottom-line profit potential for producers.

Peter Wood, AgroFresh country manager for South Africa, said:

“Ian and his team quickly caught on to the strength of Harvista 1.3 SC and how they could use it to their advantage in securing the best quality at the right time. Today, our AgroFresh Harvista 1.3 SC technology forms a vital part of their program, and we’re proud to be associated with them, because we both know we’re stronger together.”

From securing fruit quality to better management of weather challenges and greater labor efficiency, Harvista 1.3 SC has proven to be a valuable tool for fruit growers around the world. Launched in 2014, Harvista 1.3 SC is the only plant growth regulator available that delivers fast-acting control of ethylene response up to three days prior to harvest, which extends the harvest window up to 14 additional days. For apples, that means reduced fruit drop and better quality, size increase to gain a higher yield, firmness and color development – leading to increased yield potential of more than 10%, ultimately impacting increased revenue potential per hectare/acre.*

For more details about Harvista 1.3 SC and other ways AgroFresh is helping customers produce abundant, sustainable and quality fresh produce, visit AgroFresh.com. Individual conditions and results may vary. Contact your regulatory agency or your local AgroFresh account manager to determine product registration in your country.

*Based on AgroFresh domestic and international trials. Individual results may vary.

About AgroFresh    

AgroFresh is a global leader in post-harvest quality and freshness solutions, dedicated to enhancing the quality and extending the shelf-life of fresh produce while reducing food loss and waste. From a legacy of innovation that stretches back more than 40 years, AgroFresh addresses fresh produce supply chain challenges from all angles, offering a full suite of integrated storage, packing line, and digital solutions. AgroFresh has what it takes to empower growers, packers and retailers to succeed in their business of delivering fresh, quality and sustainable produce from harvest to home.

To learn more about AgroFresh, visit www.agrofresh.com.