Berry fancy farming in R’fontein

On the outskirts of town down a dirt road and in the most unlikely place is the crème de la crème of fruit farming.

Lulamanzi Farm is owned by David Horak, a retired geologist trying his hand at and succeeding in fruit farming.

This is the first year David is growing berries and he is far from being under-prepared.

The unique part of his farm is his rows of blueberries that are treated like royalty. David is one of a small number of farmers on the West Rand who produce berries.

The berries are under nets in plastic holders. His nets have been put up cleverly in that they protect the bushes from hail, which could spell disaster for any farmer who is less equipped.

The netting has special rubbers fitted to allow a heavy load of hail or water to drop to the inside of the enclosure between the rows.

He also explained the complexities of growing a decent quality berry. In winter the berry bushes are frozen in the mornings so when the sun comes out the berry can thaw to prevent extensive damage. He said white frost is what damages the plants. What he creates by freezing them is clear frost.

This is just one of the fruit’s intricate needs. Blueberries are grown in a mixture of pine wood and sand. It costs a pretty penny and has to be brought in from Mpumalanga.

In addition, berries should not be handled more than what is necessary. David explained that there is a white layer around a blueberry that should stay on the berry. If the white layer is removed, it is considered not to be a good quality berry.

Fortunately David’s berry bushes have not been attacked severely by pests. He said the only issue he is reluctant even to call an issue is aphids. Birds are the biggest challenge. “The berries are enclosed but these birds always find a way to get in,” he said.

While David was explaining the ins and outs of berry farming he challenged the Herald’s palate. When the Herald first arrived on the farm he picked a purple swollen berry and said, “Try this and tell me what you think of the ones in the other tent when we get there.”

The entire expedition turned into a gourmet berry-tasting event. David and the Herald did what wine connoisseurs would do at a wine tasting.

Different strain berries were picked and tasted. The flavours ranged from extremely sweet and soft to nose-wrinkling sour and finally a berry with just the right amount of sweet and sour. This berry is called the number 19.