Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing, South Africa’s largest marketer of apples and pears, invites the public to explore its Heritage Orchard of historic apple and pear trees at Oak Valley Estate in Grabouw.
The free guided tour, hosted by Tru-Cape’s quality-assurance manager Henk Griessel and new varietal experts Buks Nel and Jeanne Fourie, will take place on Saturday 1 March from 10:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 16:00.
Tru-Cape’s Heritage Orchard is dedicated to preserving near-lost apple-and-pear varieties, ensuring these historical fruits are not forgotten. Visitors will also have the chance to experience and taste historic varieties such as the Newton Apple, Northern Spy, Pomme de Neige, and Cox Orange Pippen, many of which are no longer commercially produced.
In 2019, Tru-Cape, together with Hortgro, replanted the Witte Wijnappel, the first apple picked at the Cape, in its original location at The Company’s Gardens, as well as in the Tru-Cape Heritage Orchard at Oak Valley and at Babylonstoren.
During the tour guests will gain insight into the fascinating history of these heritage fruits, as Griessel and Nel, co-authors of the books Apples in the Early Days at the Cape, The Newcomers and People, and Pears and the stories they share, share their knowledge. The Kroonappel, for instance, is a variety introduced to South Africa in the 17th century. According to Griessel, further research into the Kroonappel revealed its alternate names, including Fyne Kroon, Aagt-appel, Engelsche Aagt and Lekker Beetje. Described as a medium-sized, round fruit with smooth, green-yellow skin and a pleasant herb-like taste, the Kroonappel offers a glimpse into the rich agricultural history of the Cape.
For Tru-Cape, the protection of these genetic treasures is of great importance. “If you don’t know where you’ve been you can’t know where you’re going,” said Nel, who is recognised for his work in new varietal development, including the discovery of BigBucks Gala/Flash Gala.
In addition to the tour, the above-mentioned books will be available for purchase at the event.
Visitors are advised to wear sensible walking shoes and bring appropriate weather and sun protection, as no seating, bathroom or refreshment facilities are available on-site.
Tickets are free, but places are limited to 40 people per walkabout. Book via Quicket (https://qkt.io/5l1xdI).
