InnOBreed CASE STUDY - Poma Culta, Switzerland

The non-profit organisation Poma Culta was founded in 2004. It fosters research into biodynamic fruit growing, in particular the breeding of disease-tolerant applevarieties. It has around 300 members and supporters and is responsible for fundraising. In 2007, the association was able to acquire three hectares of suitable agricultural land in Hessigkofen, north of Bern (Switzerland). This made it possible to set up aresearch station specialising in the breeding of new apple varieties. It works closely with the biodynamically managed Biohof Rigi farm, from which it rents its premises and machinery. The farm also provides many services for practical breeding work.