Family Van der Straeten

Bart Van der Straeten grows organic apples and pears. Before becoming a full-time fruit grower, he already raised sheep and chickens organically. In 2017, he took over land from a fruit farmer and began cultivating different varieties of apples and pears organically. Transitioning from non-organic farming to fully organic farming takes several years. Currently, two-thirds of Bart’s crops are organic, and he hopes to achieve full organic certification soon. Bart’s apples and pears are grown across various locations, covering a total of 20 hectares. His varieties include Jonagold, Elstar, Conference and Doyenné.

“Some apple varieties are susceptible to scab, so we’ve planted only scab-resistant varieties as well. These are also better suited to organic farming,” says Bart. “By growing many different varieties, we always ensure a good harvest,” he adds.

Bart also enjoys eating apples and pears himself. “We love pears baked in the oven with croquettes,” he says.