The main varieties grown are Ania, Malling Centenary, Lady Emma and Favori. These are firm favourites mainly due to their high productivity, delicious flavour, and disease resistance. However, around 40 varieties are trialled each year, and it takes roughly seven years for a new variety to be tried, tested, and approved before it can be available for the open market.

The preferred growing media used on the farm is Coir, a renewable resource produced from the husk of coconuts and is more sustainable than peat. The Coir Grow bags, which are biodegradable, are used for growing strawberry crops for two years, and then the Coir is tipped and used to grow Asparagus.

Recent investments include a water harvesting system and three reservoirs. This system collects rainwater and condensation via specially designed gutters, which run along the strawberry tunnels and then feed rainwater directly into the reservoirs, a perfect way to contribute to sustainable farming practices.

This also means that the water supply for all the crops is sourced directly and can be maintained by the team on the farm to the highest quality. Strawberries are 88% water, so the best quality water is imperative for the plants to become strong and the fruit to be consistent. New Forest Fruit also uses biological control to protect the crops, a method that uses natural enemies to control pests and has produced successful results. 

Sustainability and protecting the environment is a priority, so every measure has been implemented to achieve this. Around the farm, bee hotels, bat boxes and bird boxes have been installed. The hedgerows are under a management program which allows wildlife corridors to provide vital shelter for wildlife. It also helps protect the diverse range of flora and fauna which grows around the farm. 3000 apple & pear trees and wildflowers in the verges have been planted to promote the natural biosphere.

New Forest Fruit is a member of LEAF - Linking Environment and Farming. This leading organisation works with farmers, the food industry, and consumers to inspire and enable prosperous and sustainable farming, enrich the environment, and engage the local communities. New Forest Fruit is also a long-standing member of local organisations - Hampshire Fare and New Forest Marque. This is a stamp of approval to say all the produce is grown, harvested and packed in the New Forest. 

You will find New Forest Fruit produce on the shelves of leading supermarkets - including now our snacks are stocked in Waitrose! As well as in local farm shops, hotels and the kitchens of many of the South Coast's best restaurants.

Early Season Asparagus

New Forest Fruit has been growing asparagus in New Forest National Park for several years. Due to mild winters and improved farming techniques, the crop can be harvested early from the end of February.

Instead of growing in soil, the crop is grown in coir (coconut fibre). All the coir used to grow the asparagus is recycled from the production of strawberries – the main crop is grown on the farm. This method of growing means the coir can warm up more quickly, plus the crop is housed in tunnels to trap natural heat. This means the use of artificial heating or lights isn’t needed.

Also, where the farm is situated means the farm can benefit from being sheltered from strong winds by the Isle of Wight and the south coast’s increased light levels and warmer temperatures. Not only that, but the technical team have also managed to care for the asparagus crop naturally by using microbiology & fungi, which has resulted in the crop being pesticide-free.

New Forest Fruit - local stockist list

Please check availability before visiting.