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Two successful alternatives which BNS have supported are
cider apple and daffodil production. In 1995 Teagasc completed a feasibility study
which concluded that the BNS region, due to its 'climatic conditions', would be
a suitable area for growing cider apples. The proximity of one of Europe's leading
cider brand names, Bulmers, Clonmel, Co.. Tipperary, meant that the area
was ideal for production. Under this initiative BNS supported 5 individual growers
to plant 8 hectares each. The crop has a life span of approximately 20 years with
an income stream that surpasses all mainstream cereal crops in Ireland. The five
farmers involved in this initiative had previous knowledge of crop husbandry and
a good track record in fruit production. They diversified their enterprise mix
and secured a future income. Each grower has expressed a definite interest in
planting additional acreage.
Daffodil production was alien to the BNS region until a number of mainly cereal
producers from South Kilkenny decided to seek alternative uses for their land.
Some research lead them to an English cooperative whom at the time were looking
to expand their production base into Ireland. Production area in Ireland was sought
due to its freedom of a daffodil pest known as potato systele nematode (PSN).
Daffodil production yields two crops. Firstly, the bulbs which is the primary
reason why daffodils are grown in Ireland, and secondly flowers. A lucrative market
has been developed by Irish growers to the fresh flower market on the east coast
of the United States. The bulb market is experiencing a growth period, with Irish
bulbs being exported to the Netherlands the home of bulbs.
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