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It is an exciting time at Mannus CSI Agriculture Orchard as we embark on a transformative journey to future proof our operations and meet the evolving demands of the apple market. On October 7th, 2025, we officially launched our grafting program, marking a significant milestone in our orchard’s growth and sustainability.
In the ever-changing world of horticulture, staying relevant is key. Many older apple varieties no longer meet market demand, making them commercially unviable. Grafting allows us to rejuvenate our orchard by replacing outdated varieties with those that are in high demand ensuring our produce remains competitive and valuable.
At the heart of this program is the Alvina Gala, a vibrant, market favoured variety known for its crisp texture and sweet flavour. This new apple is being grafted onto existing rootstock, replacing an older variety that no longer holds commercial value. Once mature, these trees will produce fruit that can be sold directly to markets, opening up new opportunities.
By the numbers:
That is over 325,000 apples annually once the trees reach full production!
This initiative is more than just an agricultural upgrade; it is a powerful rehabilitation and education opportunity. Each day, 25 inmates are employed at the orchard, gaining hands-on experience in modern horticultural practices. Grafting a tree takes just 3 minutes, but the skills and confidence gained can last a lifetime.
Through this program, participants are not only contributing to a thriving orchard but also building valuable skills that support their reintegration into the community.
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