I am the third generation of my family to run the Lahnhof farm in central Silandro. My father had already dedicated himself to growing apples in the orchards around Val Venosta’s administrative center and I have always wanted to work in my father’s farm. This is why I went to the famous Laimburg technical college for fruit production, viticulture and horticulture in South Tyrol and then took over the farm. I decided to grow apples according to organic guidelines more than 15 years ago because I no longer wanted to use any chemical or synthetic pesticides, which I think is not a good thing.

Today I am convinced that organic production is the right way. It is important to me to produce a healthy and natural product and to farm sustainably so that my successors can still work in my orchards. I can rely on the help of my daughters who support me during very busy periods. And when it is time to harvest my apple varieties Golden Delicious, Pinova, Idared and Red Delicious, I also employ seasonal workers. I am convinced that a good organization of work is important to guarantee professionalism and quality.

In winter, however, I enjoy the tranquility around me: I cut the apple trees and feel at ease when working in the nature. And in the evening, when the work is done, I like biting into one of my crunchy Pinova apples because they are the best.