Agrii adviser is the first fruit adviser to gain a graduate diploma
Long-term fruit agronomist Gary Saunders has become the first non-arable adviser to gain the Harper Adams University graduate diploma in agronomy with environmental management.
A member of the Agrii fruit team since 2014, Gary has specialised in fruit since completing the BASIS diploma in crop protection after graduating from Wye College with a BSc (hons) in horticulture in 2000.
Serving fruit and vine growers across the south-east of England, Gary’s career has spanned commercial production, research and agronomy.
Gaining the diploma, which builds on the certificate in crop protection (commercial horticulture) received in 2016 and the BASIS diploma in agronomy awarded in 2021, involved promoting a wider understanding of the farmed environment.
“Modern agronomy involves far more than just good crop protection, and I am increasingly called on to advise on problems for which the solution cannot be found in a bag or can,” says Gary Saunders.
“The graduate diploma reflects the scope of the modern job with modules on soil and water management, conservation and waste to land, among others. As an adviser to some of the biggest names in the industry, I recognise that to best serve their needs, I need to constantly develop my skills and breadth of knowledge,” he adds.
National Fruit Show 23
Agrii’s presence at the National Fruit Show was impactful, both as an exhibitor and as the visitor bag sponsor this year.
Agrii’s fruit team offered expert advice on topics such as crop management and disease control which we hope our visitors found valuable.
Despite the footfall seeming significantly lower this year, it was great to catch up with our growers.
Vineyard Show 23
Agrii significantly contributed to this year’s Vineyard and Winery Show, notably as the tasting glass sponsor.
Agrii’s stand showcased advanced solutions for vineyard management and wine production, across the whole of the vineyard process. Key highlights included soil health management, precision agriculture technologies via RHIZA, and disease and pest control methods – all essential for high-quality grape cultivation.
