Hernandorena Transitions to High-Density Planting System with Agromillora for Sustainable Agriculture
Boosting production through high-density systems, Hernandorena places sustainability at the core of its agricultural business model
The Spanish agricultural company Hernandorena, active for three generations in the fields of nursery cultivation and fruit growing, is modernizing its production model to achieve its sustainability and efficiency goals. In this transformation, Hernandorena has opted for the high-density (hedge) planting system and, thanks to Agromillora’s solutions, has achieved a high-yielding, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective production process.
A Modern Approach to Almond Production: High-Density (Hedge) System
In Hernandorena’s current almond production model, 60% of the trees are grown using traditional methods, while 40% are cultivated using the high-density (hedge) planting system. This transition provides not only increased production but also significant advantages in terms of sustainable agriculture.
Fernando Hernandorena: “High-Density Planting Enables More Efficient and Sustainable Production”
Production Manager Fernando Hernandorena describes their transition to high-density almond cultivation as follows:
“We had significant experience with high-density systems in olives and stone fruits. With the adaptation of almonds to this system, we significantly increased our production capacity. This method has not only improved efficiency but also brought benefits such as easier mechanization, shorter setup times, and lower production costs. Thus, we’ve taken another step toward our sustainable agriculture goals.”
High-Density Farming Compatible with Rootpac® Rootstocks
Rootstock selection plays a major role in the success of the high-density system. Fernando Hernandorena explains the impact of low-vigor rootstocks like Rootpac®40:
“Our production process began with Rootpac®40 eight years ago, and it facilitated our transition to mechanized and modern agriculture. With these types of rootstocks, we achieve both diversity and successful implementation of efficient, high-density planting systems.”
Rosa Hernandorena: “Our Production Capacity Increased Thanks to Agromillora”
Rosa Hernandorena, Head of Trade and Export, highlights the importance of their collaboration with Agromillora:
“Thanks to Agromillora, we launched a major modernization project focused on productivity and sustainability. This system not only increased our production capacity but also provided a strong foundation for future investments. Additionally, we increased our almond production by approximately 30% with the high-density system.”
Eco-Friendly Pest Control Through Biological Methods
In 2013, Hernandorena completely abandoned chemical pest control methods and achieved effective results against red spider mites through biological control. Fernando Hernandorena describes this process:
“Each year, we tested a new biological method, and after ten years, we achieved successful results. By expanding this success to all our orchards, we adopted a production model that respects nature.”
Investing in the Future with High-Density Planting
Rosa Hernandorena believes that high-density planting is not only the model for today but also for the future:
“In fruit cultivation, reducing input costs, optimizing labor management, and enhancing competitiveness have made high-density planting our core strategy. This system makes sustainability not just a goal, but the foundation of our production model.”
Conclusion: The New Standard in Sustainability and Efficiency – High-Density System
Through its collaboration with Agromillora, Hernandorena has established a high-yielding, eco-friendly, and cost-efficient production model that sets it apart among European almond producers. The high-density system stands out not only for its productivity but also as the most effective solution for long-term sustainability and modern agricultural practices.
