Why are there so few peach growers left in Belgium? This question puzzles many, including Ludo, a local grower who still maintains his orchard with family help. The peach industry, rooted deeply in manual labour, faces challenges that few are willing to tackle today.
- Waarom perzikkwekers nog nauwelijks bestaan
- Perzikkweken vereist intensief handwerk
- Plukken, bakken vullen en verkopen essentieel
- Boomgaard onderhoudt men het hele jaar
- Familie werkt samen in perzikkwekerij
- Oudere generatie blijft actief meewerken
On 2025-07-19 11:51:00, Ludo shared insights into the demanding nature of peach cultivation. From picking and filling crates to selling and year-round orchard care, the work requires dedication. Remarkably, his family remains involved, with his mother selling peaches and both his 80-year-old father and son actively working alongside him.
So, what keeps this tradition alive in some Belgian families, and why is it fading elsewhere? The answer reveals much about the future of local peach farming.
Why has peach farming become almost a lost art in Belgium? It boils down to a few key factors:
- Peach growing demands constant manual work throughout the year.
- Few young people want to commit to the physical and time-intensive tasks.
- Family involvement remains crucial, as seen with Ludo’s parents and son.
- The market pressures and economic viability challenge small-scale growers.
As Belgian peach growers face a decline, supporting these family businesses and encouraging younger generations to engage in agriculture is essential. Could community initiatives or local policies help sustain this cherished tradition?
