The A.D. Makepeace Company, based in Wareham, is the world’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 160-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 Bogs
The summer months see a wide variety of activity on the cranberry bogs. In the middle of July, the cranberry blossoms have been pollinated, fruit has set, and we see the bees disappear as quickly as they arrived in mid-June. The tiny cranberry flowers have dropped their petals and green cranberries have begun to grow.
At this stage, our top priority is to keep the crop healthy and growing. It is essential to feed, weed, water, protect, and support the growing fruit.
As the berries begin to grow, they need nourishment. We fertilize with precision to encourage fruit growth over vine growth.
Weeds that are deemed detrimental to a crop’s progress are typically hand weeded. Weeds that are not disturbing the crop’s progress are often left alone.
The traditional rule of thumb is that cranberries need an average of one inch of water per week during the growing season. Our pumps are equipped with auto-start technology that make it easy to set a watering schedule that ensures sufficient irrigation without waste.
Consistent with industry best management practices, we use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques as an ecological approach to pest control. IPM includes a combination of biological, cultural, or chemical control methods. Pesticides are only used when necessary and are applied by state-certified applicators.
With our constant support and Mother Nature’s help, our summertime efforts will result in a bountiful fall harvest!
Southeastern Massachusetts
Summer, 2022
PRESS RELEASES AND NEWS
UPCOMING EVENTS
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Kane Promoted to Makepeace President
/in General /by Linda BurkeJames F. Kane, chief operating officer of the A.D. Makepeace Company, has been promoted to president and chief executive officer of the company.
Ierardi Named Read Custom Soils General Manager
/in General /by Linda BurkeChristopher Ierardi has been promoted to General Manager of the Read Custom Soils (RCS) Division of the A.D. Makepeace Company.
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.