The establishment of Mekarsari Fruit Garden represents an important step forward in the development of Indonesia’s commercial fruit industry. First and foremost, the garden is a place where one can find the wealth of Indonesia’s fruit species gathered together in a single location. Among the species are some of the finest varieties collected from the various regions in the archipelago. This unique plant collection constitutes an extremely valuable repository of genetic information relating to the cultivated fruits of Indonesia, thereby conserving the rich natural diversity of the region and safeguarding the nation’s botanical heritage. Mekarsari is also a research centre for scientists, farmers, students, extension specialists, and hobbyist, gathering information on new horticulture technology. Research facilities include a laboratory, greenhouses, nurseries, and a library. Researchers at the garden have identified some promising new fruit varieties with improved qualities, either from natural selection or breeding programs.New techniques are being developed in cultivating miniature fruit trees in containers to alter the fruiting season, and eventually produce harvest all-year-round. Newly released superior varieties are being disseminated in the form of seedlings and grafted plants to the farmers and fruit growers. The Fruit Garden is conceived also as a tourist attraction; a place to come with the family to admire the fruit collection and ornamental gardens. Leisure facilities include restaurants, shops, fruit stalls, viewing tower, tour ride around the garden, the opportunity to pick your own fruit and vegetables, a lake and water recreations.
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