Rosehip cultivation

Rosehip cultivation is an exciting field from many perspectives. The dog rose (Rosa canina) is one of Hungary’s best-known wild fruits and has been collected and processed for centuries. Its cultivation became significant in the mid-20th century, when its economic value was recognised due to its high vitamin C content and various health benefits. Rosehip is highly valued in medicine, the food industry and cosmetics, and its wide range of uses has led to steadily increasing interest.

The plant is most commonly propagated generatively, meaning from seed, but demand for vegetative propagation is also growing, as it allows the establishment of genetically uniform plantations. The dog rose has specific requirements for cultivation: although it is drought-tolerant, it prefers calcareous soils with good water management. Due to its wide ecological tolerance, it can thrive in various soil types; however, plant protection becomes especially important in cultivated stands, where pest and disease pressure is significantly higher.

One of the most important pests is the rose fruit fly, which reduces fruit quality. Field voles and several fungal diseases – such as rose rust – can also pose major problems. Therefore, developing an appropriate spray program, including both preventive and curative treatments, is essential for improving rosehip cultivation technology.

Harvest timing is critical: the optimal point is determined by fruit firmness, bright red colour and high vitamin C content. Harvesting at the right time is crucial for further processing, especially when producing jam, syrup or other food products.

Overall, rosehip cultivation offers excellent market opportunities thanks to its high nutritional value, versatile applications and health-promoting properties.