How Hortgro Science Chooses Research That Matters | Ep. 142

This episode of the Lucentlands Podcast features Wiehann Steyn, General Manager: Hortgro Science, in conversation with hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie.Hortgro Science plays a central role in coordinating and funding research for the South African deciduous fruit industry. In this conversation, Wiehann explains how research priorities are identified, how limited funding is allocated, and why grower needs must remain at the centre of every research decision.The discussion covers the practical realities of managing a research portfolio across production efficiency, post-harvest performance, crop protection, market access, biosecurity, climate risk and cultivar evaluation. Wiehann explains that Hortgro Science funds around 100 projects a year, but that the key challenge is not simply funding research — it is deciding what research matters most to growers and the long-term sustainability of the industry.The episode also explores how Hortgro Science works with universities, researchers, service providers and industry partners to build local research capacity. Wiehann highlights the importance of developing technical people through research projects, including students who go on to become technical managers, researchers and industry specialists.Key topics covered in this episode include:• How Hortgro Science identifies research priorities• Why grower needs shape the research agenda• The process of evaluating concept proposals and full research proposals• Research funding across post-harvest, production and crop protection• Market access, phytosanitary risk and biosecurity• Climate risk and planning for future production conditions• Collaboration with universities and research service providers• Building technical capacity in the South African fruit industry• The role of the Hortgro Technical Symposium as a platform for knowledge-sharing and networking• Cultivar evaluation, rootstock trials and the need for long-term research• Industry challenges such as white root rot and the loss of key crop protection toolsThis episode gives a clear inside view of how research is structured behind the scenes in the deciduous fruit industry, and why science, collaboration and long-term thinking remain essential to the future of South African fruit production.This conversation was recorded at the Hortgro Technical Symposium 2026, where industry leaders gathered to discuss the future, challenges and opportunities of South African agriculture.Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Podcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/lucentlandspodcastSupport this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: ⁠https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromo⁠Visit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/