Boris’s Fruit Shed co-owner Josie Mladenov.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
A favourable summer has delivered a strong harvest for the growers behind Boris’s Fruit Shed, with good weather, reliable water access and strong customer demand combining for a positive season.
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Owners Josie and Emily Mladenov operate a mixed stone fruit orchard spanning around 28 hectares, producing a wide range of summer fruit including apricots, plums, cherries, peaches and nectarines.
Millie the family orchard doggo.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
The business is primarily seasonal, with peak activity through the summer harvest period.
“It’s been a good year,” Emily Mladenov said.
“The weather’s been good, which always makes a big difference.”
Nectarines.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
The pair said this season stood in contrast to recent challenging years, including the severe storm event in early January last year that caused widespread damage across the district.
This summer, however, conditions have been far kinder, with no major weather disruptions reported.
Fruit picker Michael.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Pest pressure has been manageable, and access to water has been reliable throughout the season, allowing fruit to reach maturity with minimal stress.
Direct-to-customer sales continue to be a key focus for the business, with most fruit sold through the Boris’s Fruit Shed storefront.
Plums.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Strong demand has seen some customers seeking bulk purchases, with interest exceeding available supply at times.
“We’ve had a lot of people coming in to buy,” Emily said.
“We could sell more fruit if we had it.”
Apricots.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Among this season’s standout performers, peaches have been particularly popular with customers.
“The yellow-flesh peaches, especially the clingstone varieties, are what everyone’s hanging out for,” she said.
Peaches.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
While the business previously supplied fruit to Melbourne markets, the owners said they have not done so for the past two years, instead focusing on local sales and direct customer relationships.
As the summer harvest continues, Boris’s Fruit Shed remains well positioned to capitalise on strong demand for locally grown fruit, supported by a season that has delivered quality and consistency.
Follow Boris’s Fruit Shed on Facebook to see stock and opening times. They are a cash-only business.
