An initiative of

Ilenia Nordera

Bionorde

Hi, I'm Ilenia Nordera and I grow organic kiwi's, pumpkins, pears and apples in the north of Italy, together with my group Bionorde. Bionorde represents a number of organic fruit and vegetable growers located in the Verona area here in Italy. The idea behind Bionorde is basically a “union of powers” meaning that by working together we are in a better position to meet the needs of the modern consumers.

Hi,I'm Ilenia Nordera and I grow organic kiwi's, pumpkins, pears and apples in the north of Italy, together with my group Bionorde. Bionorde represents a number of organic fruit and vegetable growers located in the Verona area here in Italy. The idea behind Bionorde is basically a “union of powers” meaning that by working together we are in a better position to meet the needs of the modern consumers.

In the year 2000, together with my dad Flavio, brother Daniele and my aunt Franca, we set up our own organic farm. Today the farm covers over 15 hectares and is split into 4 allotments. 2 allotments are used as a nursery for young plants and trees and on the remaining land we grow different varieties of organic apples and pears as well as peaches, kiwis and pumpkins.

Our farm also has a special warehouse where we select, clean, process, pack, cool and store these wonderful products.

In 2003, together with my dad Flavio and my cousin Chiara we started Bionorde. The company basically trades in high quality organic fruit and vegetables grown in the Verona region. The idea behind Bionorde is basically a “union of powers” meaning that by working together we are not only more efficient but just as important we are in a better position to meet the needs of the modern organic consumer.

 

N&M: What is the idea behind Bionorde ?

Ilenia: Bionorde has numerous goals.  First and foremost we want to promote and develop new, interesting and heirloom varieties of  organic apples, pears, kiwis, peaches and pumpkins.  One of our success stories has been the introduction to Italy of the well known Royal gala, Tenroy, Delbarestival, Delcorf, Festival, Delorgoue apple varieties.

 

Why the fascination for such special varieties ?

Flavio: For most of my working life, I have been involved in the field of fruit and plant nurseries, experimenting with new, more disease resistant varieties.  The combination of my experience, passion for organic agriculture and the fact that consumers are looking for new tasty alternatives to the standard apple or pear is the reason why we have gone down this path.

 

N&M in what other way do you collaborate with other local organic growers ?

Flavio: To be honest I see these growers more as friends and we help each other out with technical assistance and advice regarding planting, harvesting and keeping the plants and the trees healthy.  Our aim is to support local organic agriculture here in Verona and to learn from each other and share this important knowledge. Furthermore, we also make sure that the certifications are up to date and fully in order.

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