Apple production grows in the South of Minas Gerais

Apple production in the South of Minas Gerais, still new in the region, has been gaining momentum with the participation of producers from 15 municipalities. The cultivated area is expected to grow from 7,2 to 10,2 hectares by 2025, following the arrival of 2 seedlings acquired by a group of 20 producers. The estimate is that this new area will produce up to 60 tons of fruit per year when the trees are fully developed.

The introduction of the crop began in 2022, with the implementation of demonstration units by Emater-MG. In the first harvests, with still young plants, 30 tons were produced. The cultivated varieties Eva and Princesa were chosen for their good adaptation to the region's climate, which is less harsh than that of traditionally producing areas.

In addition to supplying the regional market with fresh fruit, without the need for refrigeration, apple cultivation is seen as an alternative for income diversification, especially in areas that do not produce coffee due to the risk of frost. There is also the expectation of serving institutional programs such as Pnae (National School Feeding Program), which currently depends on fruit from other states.