Our Apple Growing & Packing Process
the Journey From Orchard to Shelf
At Gibson Farms, every apple is carefully managed from planting to packing to ensure the highest quality, freshness, and consistency. Our process combines traditional hands-on care with modern technology to deliver premium Ontario apples for retail and wholesale customers.
Every Step Counts: Delivering Quality Apples
Step-by-Step Process:
Planting
Our state-of-the-art high-density orchards feature over 1,600 trees per acre, carefully positioned with GPS technology to maximize sunlight exposure, optimize labor efficiency, and enhance overall yields.
Growing
Using smart irrigation systems, fertigation, integrated pest management, and AI-powered monitoring, we maintain healthy trees and consistently high-quality fruit while minimizing environmental impact.
Harvesting
Apples are gently hand-picked onto harvest-assisted machines, reducing bruising and physical strain on workers while ensuring each fruit maintains its natural shape and texture.
Transport to Packing
After harvest, fruit is carefully moved from the orchard to on-site storage using tractors or trucks, preserving integrity and preventing damage during transit.
Storage
Controlled-atmosphere storage with low oxygen levels keeps apples crisp, slows the ripening process, and extends shelf life without compromising flavour or texture.
Sorting & Grading
Advanced optical and internal sensors examine each apple for size, colour, and internal quality, removing any fruit that doesn’t meet our strict standards.
Packaging
Apples are packed into retail-ready bags, cartons, or bulk bins with full traceability, ensuring every piece of fruit can be tracked from orchard to shelf.
Distribution
Fruit is shipped directly to retailers or through select distributors to ensure freshness and quality. Through our specialized logistics division, Viva Logistics, we deliver worldwide on time and in peak condition.
Sustainability Practices
We are committed to farming responsibly and protecting the land for future generations. Our sustainability efforts include:
High-Density Planting: Maximizes efficiency and land use while optimizing sunlight, labor, and yields.
Water Conservation & Smart Irrigation: Advanced irrigation systems reduce water usage and ensure healthy trees.
Recycling & Environmentally Conscious Packaging: Packaging materials are selected with sustainability in mind, minimizing waste.
Fertilizer Reduction: Targeted fertigation and precision nutrient management reduce excess fertilizer use.
By combining these practices with modern technology and multi-generational expertise, we grow apples that are better for the environment and better for you.
Delivering Excellence, One Apple at a Time
Every apple reflects seven generations of expertise, careful stewardship, and innovative growing practices. From planting to packing to distribution, we ensure that only the freshest, highest-quality apples reach retailers and consumers across Canada—a true testament to our commitment to flavour, consistency, and excellence.