This week, more than 30 members enjoyed a fascinating vocational visit to Ross Grieve’s property, where he generously hosted a tour of his specialist nursery. Ross grows a wide range of sub-tropical fruiting plants from seed and by grafting, many originating from South America, whose climate closely resembles parts of New Zealand, allowing the plants to thrive here. We were introduced to several unusual fruits and even had the opportunity to taste several varieties.
Ross was joined by local growers and seed importers who shared their enthusiasm for tropical fruits and their commitment to preserving heritage varieties in New Zealand. Discussion also covered the challenges of importing plant material: bringing in live plants is extremely difficult and costly, while seeds are easier to import, provided they are dry, not sprouting, and approved on the Ministry for Primary Industries permitted list. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening, rounded off with a delicious BBQ and chocolate brownie kindly prepared by Ross’s friends and family.
