Versuchsbetriebe Ottensen und Esteburg

This article describes the foundation and development of experimental fruit farms in Ottensen and subsequently on the Esteburg site. Important foci of work of the experimental farm are varietal and rootstock trials of apple, pear, sweet and sour cherry, plum and prune, as well as additional cultivation trials with the afore-mentioned fruits. Machines and equipment are being tested under practical conditions. Since the introduction of Integrated Production in 1989, the experimental farm is being managed according to these guidelines. An area of 4?ha has been managed according to organic farming practice since 2001. The apprenticeship scheme covers 8 trainee gardeners specialising in fruit production as well as two technical assistants. The experimental farm is certified as a cross-company apprenticeship centre for training gardeners specialising in fruit production.