Josep Maria Font – Giropoma

The role of insects in apple production

Insects play a fundamental role in the production cycle of apple trees and are part of a natural balance that must be understood, managed and preserved. Giropoma works with a model that values sustainability, biodiversity and respect for the environment, integrating practices that favor useful insects.

The main beneficial insects present in the fields are pollinators, such as bees and bumblebees, which play an essential role in the pollination process of apple blossoms. Adequate pollination contributes directly to better fruit quantity and quality, influencing aspects such as apple size and symmetry.

On the other hand, there is a great variety of insects that act as natural auxiliaries in pest control, among which the most important are the syrphids, ladybugs, lacewings and vespa parasitoids. These organisms help to reduce the presence of harmful insects in the fields in a natural way, favoring a more environmentally friendly production.

Giropoma follows the principles of integrated production, a farming system that combines agronomic efficiency with respect for the environment. Within this framework, all actions carried out in the fields are planned and executed taking into account the impact they may have on beneficial insects, with the aim of preserving the activity and ensuring continuity.

In order to conserve and improve the habitats of these insects, several concrete measures are implemented:

Plant covers with spontaneous or planted vegetation, between the lines of apple trees, implemented on all our farms.
Respect for the natural margins of the farms, which act as ecological corridors and biodiversity refuges.
Occasional installation of insect hotels on certain farms, with the aim of providing nesting and shelter spaces for useful insects.

The integration of these elements into agricultural management is part of the company’s commitment to sustainable and responsible production, which prioritizes not only product quality, but also the conservation of natural resources and biodiversity. Protecting insects is not only a necessity for production, but also a way of acting responsibly towards the territory and future generations.

Fuji, the queen of healthy snacks, salads and sauces

The Fuji apple has established itself as one of the most versatile and valued varieties on the market. Its sweet and intense flavor, combined with a juicy and crunchy texture, make it the ideal choice for both fresh consumption and cooking.

A natural and nutritious snack

It is perfect as a snack between meals. It is rich in fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants, essential nutrients to maintain a strong immune system and promote digestion. In addition, it provides energy in a natural way.

Ideal for balanced salads

Thanks to its consistent texture and balanced taste, Fuji maintains its structure without oxidizing easily. Its sweet and mild flavor perfectly balances ingredients such as vegetables, nuts or cheeses. It provides a refreshing contrast and a touch of sweetness that enriches any salad, whether cold or warm.

An excellent base for healthy sauces

Fuji’s natural sweetness allows the preparation of sauces and compotes without added sugar. It is an ideal variety for meat sauces, chutneys and purees, as it cooks easily and retains its characteristic aroma.

At Giropoma we select and care for each apple from the tree to the table. Our production model, based on sustainable agricultural practices and harvesting at the optimal moment of ripening, guarantees tasty fruit of the highest quality.

In addition to Fuji, Giropoma also produces other varieties such as Gala, Golden, Red Delicious and Granny Smith, which are under the umbrella of the PGI Manzana de Girona, and the club varieties, Cripps Pink marketed under the Pink Lady® brand, Regalyou marketed under the Candine® brand and Cripps Red marketed under the Joya® brand.

Flowering and budding of apple trees: a decisive period for Giropoma production

In Giropoma‘s orchards, spring marks the beginning of a key stage in the biological cycle of apple trees: bud break and flowering. This process, which usually takes place between the end of March and the first half of April, is the starting point of the productive season and has a direct impact on the quality and quantity of the harvest.

These are mainly conditioned by the progressive increase in temperatures and the longer daylight hours typical of this time of the year. These conditions favor the emergence of the first buds and the opening of flowers, which are essential for future fruiting.

Flowering has a direct relationship with the productive potential of trees. An abundant and well-developed flowering represents a greater number of potential fruit. However, to ensure the final quality of the apple, it is essential to thin the fruit, a practice that allows the productive load to be controlled and favors the development of the best positioned specimens.

The process that transforms a flower into a quality apple depends on several key factors. First, proper fertilization is essential for the blossom to develop into fruit. Subsequently, the proper supply of nutrients and water will determine whether the fruit achieves the desired size and characteristics.

Spring lunches and snacks with Joya®: creative, nutrient-packed ideas

Spring invites us to renew habits, colors and flavors. It is the ideal time to add a fresh and healthy touch to everyday lunches and snacks, and the Joya® apple is the best ally to do so. With its intense, sweet yet tart taste and firm, crunchy texture, this variety is the perfect protagonist for creative recipes full of vitality.

La Joya® is a late apple that stands out for its bright red coloration on a yellowish-green background, compact flesh and refreshing taste that makes it ideal both for eating alone and for combining in sweet or savory dishes. It is a fruit that keeps very well, maintains its texture for weeks and presents a perfect balance between sugar and acidity, making it very versatile in the kitchen. It is also rich in fiber, antioxidants and vitamin C, and provides a feeling of satiety ideal for mid-morning or healthy snacks.

Spring recipes with Joya®

Joya® is not only a healthy food, but also a versatile culinary tool to give life to fresh, simple and very nutritious dishes. If you want to incorporate it into your daily routine in an original way, here are some easy and tasty ideas:

– Greek yogurt with caramelized Joya® and walnuts
Sauté apple chunks with a little cinnamon and honey. Add on top of plain Greek yogurt and top with chopped walnuts.

– Toast with fresh cheese, Joya® and mint
Spread a slice of whole wheat bread with fresh cheese, add thin slices of apple and fresh mint leaves.

– Joya® and peanut butter crunchy snack
Cut apple into thin slices and spread with peanut butter. Add chia seeds or dark chocolate chips for an extra kick.

– Spring Salad with Joya®, Spinach and Goat Cheese
Mix fresh spinach, apple chunks, walnuts and crumbled goat cheese. Dress with extra virgin olive oil and a little balsamic vinegar.

In addition to Joya®, Giropoma also produces other varieties such as Gala, Golden, Red Delicious and Granny Smith, which are under the umbrella of the Poma de Girona PGI, Fuji and the club varieties, Cripps Pink marketed under the Pink Lady® brand and Regalyou marketed under the Candine® brand.

Candine, a refreshing and balanced taste

Candine® is a red apple with areas of yellowish-green coloration characterized by a slightly flattened shape, a smooth and shiny skin, with a crisp and juicy texture. Its balance between sweetness and freshness, with a lingering aroma and subtle flavors reminiscent of exotic fruits, invites everyone to eat it again.

It is known for its organoleptic qualities, which makes it an attractive option among consumers. It has a high sweetness that mixed with a moderate acidity creates a refreshing and balanced flavor. It is an apple that goes perfectly with savory ingredients and for various culinary recipes such as pork loin with apples and honey, pork roast, apple crispies with pipe or stuffed croissants.

Its optimum harvest time is at the end of September and beginning of October, when it reaches maturity, and it is marketed until July, since it is a variety that keeps very well.

In addition to Candine®, the apple trading company also produces other varieties such as Gala, Golden, Red Delicious and Granny Smith, which are under the umbrella of the Manzana de Girona PGI, Fuji and the club varieties, Cripps Pink marketed under the Pink Lady® brand and Cripps Red marketed under the Joya® brand.

Giropoma reaffirms its commitment to innovation by attending the 40th Fruit Day organized by IRTA

One more year, Giropoma has attended the 40th Jornada Fructícola organized by the Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology in La Tallada d’Empordà. This event has established itself as an unmissable event for professionals in the fruit sector, focusing on sustainable apple production and sharing the latest technological and scientific advances.

During the session, which took place this February 26, 2025, several experts have addressed key issues for the fruit sector. Carlota Gonzalez, IRTA researcher, was in charge of kicking off the presentations, analyzing how variations in the accumulation of chilling hours affect the dormancy and flowering of apple trees in the Girona region.

For their part, researchers Luis Gonzalez and Jaume Lordan, also from IRTA, presented a commented presentation on the most interesting apple varieties. They highlighted new varieties that offer improvements in quality, flavor and disease resistance, crucial aspects for growers seeking to adapt to market demands and changing climatic conditions.

Next, Lee Kalsits, from the University of Washington, delved into the role of rootstocks in calcium management, an essential element to prevent physiological disorders such as “bitter pit” in apples. In addition, Glòria Àvila and Luis Gonzalez, from IRTA, reviewed effective calcium application strategies to control this physiopathy, providing practical recommendations for growers.

In the field of diseases, Bertrand Alison, from CTIFL/SudExpé, presented experiences and results in the control of Colletotrichum in France, while Jordi Cabrefiga, from IRTA, presented local experiences in the management of Glomerella in Girona, offering valuable perspectives for growers in the region.

This day has provided updated knowledge and practical tools to face present and future challenges in apple production. Giropoma‘s participation in this event reflects its commitment to innovation and sustainability in apple production.

Giropoma explores apple production in Brazil to remain at the forefront of the industry

This month, Giropoma, along with the rest of the companies that are part of the Protected Geographical Indication Apple of Girona, has participated in a technical trip to Brazil, organized by this. This exchange brought together directors, producers, commercial and technical staff with the aim of deepening the knowledge of apple production in a climatic environment very different from that of the company.

Brazil, because of its climate, concentrates its apple production in the south of the country, especially in the states of Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul. During the trip, three important producing areas were visited: Fraiburgo, Vacaria and São Joaquim. All of them share key characteristics: they are located above 1,000 meters above sea level, with an annual rainfall of 2,000 mm, and produce mainly Gala and Fuji varieties. In addition, their subtropical climate makes it difficult for the trees to stop growing in winter, which has a negative influence on production.

The exchange of knowledge was very enriching, especially in aspects related to fungus management under high temperature and humidity conditions, as well as strategies to counteract the lack of winter cold. Participants also learned first-hand about the new intensive planting systems being implemented in the area.

With this initiative, Giropoma demonstrates its commitment to learn and incorporate best practices, reaffirming its position as a reference in apple production.

Giropoma consolidates its international presence at the Fruit Logistica in Berlin

Last week, Giropoma actively participated in Fruit Logistica 2025, the world’s leading trade fair for the fresh produce sector, held from February 5 to 7 in Berlin. This reference event has gathered more than 91,000 professionals from 140 countries, as well as more than 2,770 exhibitors from all over the world, becoming a key meeting point for innovation, market trends and global business in the fruit and vegetable sector.

With its own stand, Giropoma had the opportunity to present its range of apples, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Once again, participation in the fair was an opportunity to strengthen the brand’s presence in international markets, establish new business contacts and consolidate relationships with customers and distributors.

A space for innovation and networking

During these three days, the Giropoma stand became a meeting point for industry professionals, allowing them to share experiences and trends on the future of apple production and marketing. In addition, the fair offered networking spaces, conferences and presentations of new technologies, where topics such as the digitization of the sector, food safety and the impact of sustainability in agri-food production were addressed.

Fruit Logistica was also the ideal setting to explore new cultivation and post-harvest techniques, with the aim of continuing to guarantee top quality and environmentally friendly products. This approach is key for Giropoma, which is continuously working on the implementation of more efficient and sustainable processes to adapt to the demands of consumers and the market.

From Giropoma, we would like to thank all the professionals, customers and collaborators who have visited our stand and have shared with us this experience. We are excited about the future projects that will arise from this participation and we will continue working to offer high quality, healthy and sustainable apples. We are looking forward to the next edition, which will take place from February 4 to 6, 2026.

Pink Lady in the creative kitchen: sweet and savory contrasts

The Pink Lady® apple, known for its sweetness, combined with a subtle hint of acidity, and crisp texture, which remains even after cooking, brings a pleasant contrast to recipes. An apple that has become a favorite of chefs looking to innovate in creative cuisine. Its ability to pair with savory ingredients such as Iberian ham or cured cheeses makes this apple an ideal ally for surprising and sophisticated recipes. In addition, its bright pink color adds a distinguished air to any preparation.

Some ideas for exploring sweet and savory contrasts with Pink Lady include:
– Apple canapés with Iberian ham and honey: a classic combination with a creative twist.
– Pink Lady salad with cured cheese and walnuts: a balanced dish with texture and intense flavor.
– Apple and foie gras millefeuille: an elegant bet for special occasions.

An apple with history and production excellence

Pink Lady® is not only a delicious apple, but also a variety with a demanding and sustainable production. This apple requires a long growing cycle, which guarantees slow ripening and superior quality. In this sense, Giropoma’s grower-partners dedicate a constant effort to maintain the highest production standards, respecting the environment and betting on innovation.

Giropoma’s varieties: quality and diversity

In addition to Pink Lady®, Giropoma produces and markets a wide range of varieties. These include Royal Gala, a sweet and aromatic apple ideal for fresh consumption. The Fuji, which stands out for its juiciness and intense flavor; and the Golden, balanced and versatile, ideal for eating alone or for cooking. Granny Smith, with its acidic and refreshing taste, is a good choice for savory dishes; and Red Delicious, a highly appreciated apple by growers and consumers thanks to its intense red color and size. Finally, Candine® offers a good balance between sweetness and freshness, with a persistent aroma that makes it a very tempting option; and Joya®, which stands out for its taste balance.

This diversity makes it possible to offer quality apples adapted to all needs, from fresh consumption to gourmet cooking.

The 2024 harvest ends with an increase in apples of good size and excellent sugar content

Giropoma has finished the 2024 harvest this December. A campaign that stands out both in terms of quality and quantity, in line with the upward trend of recent years.

It is therefore important to highlight that the number of tonnes harvested this harvest has remained within the average of recent years, and that this year, in particular, has resulted in good figures thanks to the favourable weather conditions.

In this sense, Giropoma makes a positive balance of this year’s campaign and closes the 2024 harvest with satisfaction, given that despite the initial uncertainties with irrigation due to the drought, the forecasts have been fulfilled. In fact, water reserves are still low, according to the Catalan Water Agency. In spite of this situation, the apples obtained have been of good size and good colouring. So, this season, Giropoma has achieved high quality fruit in terms of good firmness, but also due to the excellent sugar content.

All this has also been possible thanks to the irrigation system based on soil moisture sensors that the company has implemented, a soil monitoring based on probes that measure the volumetric water content in the soil; and the thinning carried out to ensure that the fruit can reach the harvest with the expected quality. In recent years, with this system based on soil moisture sensors, the company has detected a 30% reduction in irrigation water compared to the water balance method previously used.

So now the company is closing the year with the Joya® harvest. A deep red bicolour apple on a yellowish-green background that stands out for its sweetness and its powerful acidic touch, making it the ideal combination for consumption in good weather. It is harvested between November and December and can be found until the end of July.

Giropoma currently markets 8 different varieties of apples. The Gala, Golden, Red Delicious and Granny Smith varieties, which are under the umbrella of the Poma de Girona PGI, the Fuji and the club varieties, the Regalyou marketed under the Candine® brand, the Cripps Pink marketed under the Pink Lady® brand and the Cripps Red marketed under the Joya® brand.