Physics teacher establishes aronia orchard in Bayburt

Önder Turan, a physics teacher at Erzurum Horasan Science High School, has established an aronia orchard in his native village of Gümüşdamla, located in the Aydıntepe district of Bayburt.

Inspired by tasting the fruit in a supermarket, Turan began his alternative agriculture venture three years ago by planting 200 saplings. He manages the orchard during weekends and summer holidays. Currently, the plants yield an average of 1 kilogram of fruit per plant.

Due to the local climate in Gümüşdamla, the aronia produced has achieved a Brix value of 23, exceeding the standard range of 18 to 20. This higher Brix level indicates increased sweetness and quality in the fruit.