More government funding is helping to support Ontario’s fruit sector.
The federal and provincial governments are investing $4.4 million to help 128 apple, tender fruit, and table grape producers grow more popular and hardy varieties of produce.
Applications are still being accepted for tender fruit, table grapes and wine grapes. Under the Growing Future Opportunities Initiative, eligible producers can receive 75 per cent of cost-share funding for plants.
“In its first year, the Growing Future Opportunities Initiative is already helping Ontario fruit producers to be more competitive, so they can provide and market more popular products for consumers to enjoy,” said Rob Flack, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “Supporting agri-food production is part of our Grow Ontario Strategy, and it’s helping to drive economic growth in Ontario’s $50 billion agri-food sector.”
Officials say the Growing Future Opportunities Initiative has already allowed growers to replant more than 94 acres of apples and more than 60 acres of tender fruit and table grapes.
The range of fruit varieties being planted are considered by the sector to have greater appeal with changing consumer tastes, and are more resilient to increase yield, improve hardiness, and enhance resistance to pests and diseases.