Tru-Cape opens heritage orchard for public tour of historic apple and pear varieties

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 March 1, from 10 to noon, and 2pm to 4pm.

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 like 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 insights into the fascinating history of these heritage fruits, as Mr Griessel and Mr Nel, co-authors of the books Apples in the Early Days at the Cape, The Newcomers and People, 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 Mr 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 herby taste, the Kroonappel offers a glimpse into the rich agricultural history of the Cape.

For Tru-Cape, which has its head office in Somerset West, 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,” says Mr Nel, who is recognized for his work in new varietaldevelopment, 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 should wear sensible walking shoes and bring appropriate weather and sun protection, as no seating, bathroom, or refreshment facilities are available on-site.

Places are limited to 40 people per walkabout, so please book the (free) tickets via Quicket and present them at the gate for entry.

For more information, contact Lucille Botha at lucilleb@tru-cape.co.za or visit www.tru-cape.com