The A.D. Makepeace Company, based in Wareham, is North America’s largest cranberry grower, the largest private property owner in eastern Massachusetts, and a recognized leader in environmentally responsible real estate development and stewardship. Cranberries are our heritage and our livelihood. Our 169-year history in the cranberry industry affects the way we do business, and it strengthens the communities we build.
LIFE on the BOG
Summer on the Bog
During the summer, we are busy making sure the berries that are forming get enough food and water. The summer months require weed management and most often will include hand pulling weeds. Fertilizers are generally applied, as needed, from June through August, either through our irrigation systems or by helicopter. We have recently begun experimenting with the application of fertilizer through a commercial drone developed for this purpose. The drone is programmed to cover the bog precisely, and can fly low enough to eliminate any overspray.
Meanwhile, the pollinators are at work. A.D. Makepeace Company growers work with a mix of bumblebees and honeybees. Bumblebees do their job even on chilly or rainy days. A typical honeybee prefers to work only in the sunshine and warmer temperatures. Because bumblebees are less likely to sting, those are typically used most in the areas, like around Rosebrook in Wareham and Redbrook in Plymouth, where they are more likely to be encountered by humans.
As with all farming, pest management is a crucial component of growing a good crop. We practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques as an ecological approach to pest control. IPM includes a combination of biological, cultural, or chemical control methods. Throughout the spring and summer, IPM scouts use insect nets and sticky traps to monitor pest activity.
Summer, 2024
Phelan Elected
/in General, Real Estate /by Linda BurkeKevin Phelan of Colliers International, a real estate professional with more than four decades of experience in the Boston/New England market, was elected to the A.D. Makepeace Company Board of Directors at the annual shareholders’ meeting in May.
Farmers Market Coming to 35 Rosebrook
/in Events, General /by Linda BurkeGet your fresh veggies and more on Thursday afternoons Rosebrook this year!
Official Ribbon Cutting for Southcoast’s Newest Luxury Rental Community
/in General, Real Estate /by Linda BurkeDignitaries and residents joined the A.D. Makepeace Company Tuesday at a ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of 35 Rosebrook, the region’s newest luxury apartment community.