New Zealand will have 40 more hectares planted with the Envy apple variety thanks to a NZD 6 million (US$ 4.65 million) joint venture between Wakatu Incorporation and apple marketer Enza, a division of Turners & Growers, according to local newspaper The Nelson Mail.

The Envy apple is expected to generate NZD 4 million in sales when it reaches full production in 2015, the website said. The apple, which is red, sweet and does not brown when it’s cut, is popular in Asia and North America and could fetch premium prices.

"We are continually looking for ways to increase the yield from our land for our owners' benefit. Envy apples provide an excellent avenue to achieve this," said Wakatu Incorporation CEO Keith Palmer in a statement, according to the website.

Brian D’Arth, Enza global variety development program manager, said the joint venture is mutually beneficial, according to the website.

Planting is expected to be complete in the next few weeks.

Pipfruit New Zealand Chairman Ian Palmer welcomed the venture, saying that cash flow concerns kept growers from investing in the Envy variety.

"Like all new varieties, you need critical mass when you plant them and this particular one is in need of critical mass because growers aren't able to plant as much as they would like to.”

Photo: Envyapples.com

Source: www.freshfruitportal.com