Participatory organic fruit breeding: grower-led variety selection and release

Summary

Locally adapted, disease-tolerant and more robust cultivars are developed, while well-performing heritage and local varieties are valorised as a reservoir of climate resilience and robustness. Fruit growers are closely involved in the selection process, taking into account their own conditions and needs, and regain decision-making power in discussions on variety protection and income-sharing. Participatory organic fruit breeding creates stronger connections with growers through on farm tastings and boosts public awareness of the value of fruit genetic diversity and the rich diversity of tastes, aromas, uses and beneficial health properties.
Practical recommendations include:
1. Build trust and relationship before formalising structure,
2. Co-define target traits from the outset,
3. Evaluate on-farm — without shortcuts on time,
4. Co-evaluate through structured tastings and field visits,
5. Formalise governance and rights-sharing, and
6. Leverage digital tools for data collection and transparency.