About

UConn has a long history as an agricultural college, dating back to 1881. Fruit production was traditionally part of the research, education and extension outreach in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources. Now, those orchards are being brought back to life in a new location to support fruit production activities in our state.

Used primarily by the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture, the orchard will serve as a hub for collaboration. From innovative research to new ice cream flavors at the UConn Dairy Bar, the impact of the fruit orchard will extend far beyond the six-acre site.

Current Progress

The fully fenced orchard will be located at UConn’s Plant Science Research Farm. The highly diversified and high-tech orchard will include tree fruit, small fruit, and vineyard grapes. Kiwi berry, honey berry, sea berry and aronia - all niche crops - are also being considered.

Rebuilding the UConn Fruit Orchard is an ongoing process with several phases. A full land evaluation is underway. In spring 2024, the orchard will break ground to begin planting the first trees and bushes. Crops will be expanded, with the first harvest anticipated in 2025.

Throughout this process, the orchard will serve as an educational asset to students and community stakeholders alike - providing insight, resources, and how-to videos on orchard planning, varietal selection, and establishment.

Our Team

Led by UConn Extension fruit production specialist, Evan Lentz, faculty and staff from UConn’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources are working to revitalize the fruit program at UConn, re-establish the orchards, and position UConn as a leader in teaching, research, and extension outreach in the commercial fruit industry.