MORDEN, Man. – Good returns can be earned from a saskatoon orchard, but people should not enter the industry expecting a quick profit.
That became evident during a meeting here earlier this month to
discuss opportunities in growing saskatoons.
It takes years for a new orchard to establish, and there typically will be no returns for at least the first three years, according to Manitoba Agriculture extension staff. A return on investment typically begins in the fourth year and picks up in the sixth year and beyond.
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“In your first four to five years, you really don’t have any income coming in,” said Anthony Mintenko, Manitoba Agriculture fruit crops specialist.
Because of that, people need to be committed to the venture before they plant their orchard, he said.
However, once the orchard is well established and the costs are paid off, the return on investment can be good, said Mintenko. A saskatoon orchard can often produce for 30 to 50 years, making it a venture that can be passed down through generations.
At the meeting in Morden, it was noted that a 10 acre orchard using mechanical harvesters could earn $35,000 in the 10th year and in subsequent years.
Once an orchard reaches full production, there will likely be one or two years out of 10 where there is a crop failure or low production, Mintenko said. People relying on income from the orchard need to take that into account.
A new mechanical harvester for saskatoons can cost $100,000 to $120,000, according to information presented at the Morden meeting. A used harvester can cost $30,000 to $60,000, while a custom-made harvester can cost less than $40,000.
Cleaning and sorting tables can cost $8,000 to $12,000 while a blast freezer can cost up to $30,000, depending on size. Saskatoons headed for storage must be cooled soon after harvest to maintain quality.
“The investment is considerable, but I think compared to any other kind of farming operation, it’s probably quite low in terms of equipment costs,” said Mintenko.
He and Manitoba Agriculture business development specialist Dan Caron advise starting small and gaining experience before contemplating a large orchard. The business plan needs as much effort as planning for the actual orchard, Mintenko said.
Proper preparation before planting can lead to saskatoon plants that reach maturity more quickly. Considerations include the need for a shelterbelt, weed and grass control and irrigation.
