FRUIT
Protea Farm is not just a place to relax, but also a working farm, growing apricots, pears, and plums.
Alongside our holiday activities and guesthouses, Protea Farm is a fully functional fruit farm steeped in the rich agricultural traditions of the Koo Valley. Since 1780, the Burger family has cultivated this land, nurturing a diverse array of crops that have sustained generations. Today, our orchards are filled with apricots, pears, and plums, continuing a legacy that spans centuries.
In 1999, Pierre Burger inherited this legacy and began steering the farm toward a new era of innovation. Recognizing the need to stand out in a competitive industry dominated by larger producers, Pierre introduced the Carmingo apricot to South Africa in 2012, revolutionizing the farm’s approach to fruit production. His decision to focus on this niche crop, despite the challenges of competing with larger fruit-growing regions, proved to be a pivotal moment for Protea Farm.
Pierre’s passion for innovation led him to Spain, where he first encountered the Carmingo series—a cultivar that offered unique advantages in taste, yield, and market appeal. By planting the first Carmingo trees in South African soil, Pierre diversified Protea Farm’s offerings and positioned the farm at the forefront of the country’s apricot production.
