People and family farms at the heart of what we do
Our family-run farms shape apple growing in South Tyrol – Südtirol. Knowledge and experience are passed down from generation to generation. The people who work on these farms, together with the staff of our cooperatives and Consortium, are at the heart of everything we do.
Growing together, learning from one another
Our apple growers contribute their cultivation expertise. The cooperatives handle storage, sorting and logistics, while we at VOG coordinate the commercialisation. This collaboration connects family farms to a network that includes research, technical advice and quality control.
The cooperative model enables participation in decision-making, knowledge sharing and joint marketing. It provides an important foundation for the economic prospects of our member farms.
Developing variety, with quality always at the heart
We are constantly developing our apple assortment. In doing so, we take into account consumer preferences, market requirements and growing conditions. Research, the introduction of new varieties and dialogue with experts all contribute to this work.
From harvesting and sorting to storage, the work of our apple growers, cooperatives and Consortium is closely coordinated.
Processing
Apples that do not meet the quality criteria for sale as fresh produce are processed by VOG Products. Processing therefore provides an additional use for the harvest, alongside the sale of fresh table apples.
In both integrated and organic farming, we promote nature-friendly production methods: we encourage beneficial organisms, rely on preventive measures to support plant health and care for the soil with the aim of maintaining its fertility. We base irrigation, fertilisation and necessary plant protection treatments on identified needs, combining experience with modern technology.
Soil care and targeted fertilisation
In summer, grass cuttings are left in the orchards as mulch. Regular soil analyses identify the nutrients available and provide a basis for fertilisation tailored to the soil’s needs.
Water in cultivation and processing
Our apple growers primarily use drip irrigation, which delivers water drop by drop to the trees, close to the ground. At the cooperatives, the water used to wash the apples is treated using filtration systems.
Supporting biodiversity
Sowing plants between orchard rows, installing insect hotels and providing nesting boxes are among our measures to support biodiversity. These are complemented by the encouragement and targeted release of beneficial organisms.
