The nursery behind a variety change
How Geisha spread across the island, one seedling at a time.
Slow math
A new variety takes three years to fruit and five to judge. Most farmers hedge by planting a few rows and keeping the old trees.
That is why variety changes here take a decade, and why a single successful plot can seed a whole valley.
A variety is not bought. It is inherited, borrowed, or smuggled in a pocket.
Where seedlings come from
Few farms have a real nursery. Most swap cuttings with neighbours or buy from a district station, which is why genetics here are more local than catalogued.
If a farm can name the source of its Geisha, take that as a sign of seriousness.
Disclosure: this article contains no affiliate links. Prices and dates checked in October 2026. Our methodology.