Heirloom Fruit Trees in Israel

Why grow local varieties of of fruit trees ?

Traditional varieties (“Heirloom”) of fruit trees have grown in the Land of Israel for thousands of years. These varieties were selected from hundreds of varieties which suited the climatic conditions of the country including a problematic water regime, and a lack of food and minerals.Traditional “Heirloom”varieties were preserved from generation to generation by making cuttings from a large variety of trees (This non sexual reproduction method preserves the exact genetic makeup of the “mother” tree). Over the past century farmers have almost stopped growing local varieties, due to the development and importing of new varieties with larger fruit and a longer shelf life. These non local species need more water and fertilization and usually require special agro-treatment, and are often more susceptible to pests.

What is the problem ?

Hundreds of varieties of fruit trees, some of which were developed from natural varieties, for generations acclimatized to the unique conditions in the country. Heirloom varieties are gradually disappearing from our landscape. Biodiversity is declining which can cause severe ecological problems (remember the Great Famine in Ireland caused by potato blight), and has caused farmers to become increasingly dependent a few varieties of trees.

What can we do ?

Farmers will not grow varieties of trees that are not economical. The private consumer who is not motivated by purely economical considerations , can choose to plant local varieties which are more drought and pest resistant then commercial varieties and which provide an extended fruit bearing season and many types of sweet and tasty fruit.

Local varieties belong to us - they have no registered "patent". Anyone can take cuttings, grow new trees and plant them in community or home gardens. Local varieties are "genetic treasure chests" which can be used to develop drought and disease resistant varieties.

Generations of farmers experienced the hardship of being a farmer in Israel yet they accumulated a great bank of knowledge (genetic and practical) and passed it on from generation to generation.

Let us continue this vital agricultural tradition.

Translated from the Shelef Agriculture Web Site