Maison Leydier is a fourth-generation family farming operation located in the Saint-Martin-de-Crau area of Provence, France. Today, the business has grown into one of the largest orchard operations in the region, producing both stone fruit and olives.
Led by grower Hugo Leydier, the farm manages nearly 300 hectares of orchards, including:
- Just under 200 hectares of peaches and nectarines
- Just under 100 hectares of olive trees
During the busy summer harvest season, the operation employs up to 250 people to manage and harvest crops across the property.
In a typical year, Maison Leydier produces approximately:
- 6,000 tonnes of peaches and nectarines
- 600–700 tonnes of olives
With production at this scale, protecting the orchard from climate risks is essential to maintaining reliable yields.
A changing climate brings new frost risks
Historically, frost was not a major concern for the farm. However, in recent years, Hugo has noticed a clear shift in seasonal patterns.
“Seven or eight years ago, we never had to heat.”
Over the past three to four seasons, spring frost events have become more frequent, particularly during the critical flowering period for stone fruit. Even short or moderate frost episodes can significantly reduce yields.
To better manage this growing risk, Maison Leydier decided to invest in active frost protection using wind machines.
“We start them once, twice, maybe three times in winter, just to save the harvest.”
Why FrostBoss frost fans
After evaluating different options, Maison Leydier selected FrostBoss® wind machines to protect their orchards.
Key factors influencing the decision included:
- Lower noise levels, achieved through FrostBoss’ four-blade fan technology
- Efficient energy consumption during frost events
- Proven build quality, backed by New Zealand engineering expertise
- Strong service and support, from project planning through commissioning
“The cost, the noise reduction, the consumption… and above all the reliability of the service.”
Today, the farm operates 12 FrostBoss wind machines, providing protection across key orchard blocks and helping secure harvests against unpredictable spring frost.
Smooth installation and commissioning
For a project of this scale, reliable installation and technical support were critical. After previous mixed experiences with other equipment, the FrostBoss installation process provided confidence from the outset.
“The start-up and installation were done straight away, without any problems.”
The machines were installed and commissioned efficiently, allowing the farm to integrate frost protection into its orchard management with minimal disruption.
Long-term protection for a large orchard operation
For Maison Leydier, investing in frost protection is about safeguarding production and maintaining long-term reliability in the face of changing climate conditions.
With FrostBoss wind machines now protecting key areas of the orchard, the farm has a solution designed to deliver performance, efficiency, and acoustic comfort.
“It was important for us to be well supported on a project of this scale.”
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