COMMERCIAL CACTUS PEAR PRODUCTION IN SOUTH AFRICA: A FARMER’S PERSPECTIVE - T. Unterpertinger
 
Consolata Estate, Haenertsburg 0730, South Africa

Although the huge potential of cactus pear has been recognized and exploited in other parts of the world, the commercial production of the plant as a fruit crop in South Africa is still in its infancy.  Initial fruit production efforts were mainly characterized by small orchard size, low fruit quality, less efficient harvest and packaging methods and local marketing arrangements.  Current trends dictate larger production units, highly productive varieties, outstanding orchard practices, sophisticated packing equipment and constant adaptation to changing consumer demands. All practices are geared towards improved fruit quality to remain competitive on local- and international markets, while efforts are also made to exploit value-adding and processing opportunities.  An overview of modern cultivation, harvest and post-harvest aspects will be presented, with reference to much needed support services which will improve the efficiency and sustainability of future cactus pear cultivation.