Rent A Tree Idea Catches On

Rent a tree idea catches on MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT Miscellaneous 16-6-31 Ontario apple growers Philip and Loretto Bender are one of a growing number of fruit growers succeeding with a "rent-a-tree" operation, according to a recent report in Ontario Farmer. The Benders got the idea from friends who had successfully tried the idea with a cherry orchard. They say city people like the idea of having something they can call their own so that when they go for a drive in the country in the fall, they can feel like they have a special place to go to. It also makes a good gift, they say. Renters, who pick their own apples, are guaranteed a minimum of 2 bu. of apples. This year, with a light crop, Philip says in most cases it took two trees to fill each customer's quota. The rental charge is $25 per tree. Renters receive a farm club membership which also entitles them to a 10 percent discount on cider and crafts in the farm's country store and use of a picnic table area as well as access to the Bender's 17 miniature horses.

To read the rest of this story, download this issue below or click here to register with your account number.