A new ecommerce business will see more than 60 varieties of apple tree grown at Huonville's Grove Heritage Nursery sold throughout Australia.

The Minister for Economic Development, David O'Byrne, today launched OAK Tasmania's business - AppleTreesForSale.com.au - which will promote Australia's largest collection of heritage apple trees located on the 28-hectare site, which is home to some 800 varieties.

Mr O'Byrne said the project has seen the relaunch into the marketplace of some apple varieties which were no longer commercially available.

"It's great to see a Tasmanian business that is not only embracing the opportunities presented through digital commerce, but is also working to preserve our reputation for growing some of the world's best apples," he said.

"I congratulate OAK Tasmania for their vision, and their commitment to growing our fruit industry."

Mr O'Byrne said OAK provides employment and certificate training for more than 160 people living with a disability, as well as providing a range of community services such as respite care, supported accommodation, employment pathways, and technology training to an additional 219 Tasmanians with special needs.

He said that while the Tasmanian fruit industry has diversified into other areas, apples remain synonymous with the state's brand.

"Tasmania is an island full of high-quality produce and we have a vision for our state to sustainably increase food production and become a major supplier of premium food products nationally and internationally," he said.

"This is supported through our Economic Development Plan, which is about making the most of our advantages to increase growth, jobs and economic prosperity.

"Playing to our strengths is the best way to find new markets, increase local supply chains, and create new and lasting jobs - and our high-quality food and beverages are one of those key strengths."

Mr O'Byrne said AppleTreesForSale.com.au also offers planting and propagation hints and tips for the home gardener and a range of dwarf fruit trees that allow people to grow fruit trees that produce full-sized and flavoured fruit on their deck or patio.

Grove Heritage Nursery Manager Mark Robertson said the focus of the new ecommerce business is to give people access to a wide range of apple trees so that everyone has the opportunity to grow their own orchard at home.

"Grove Heritage Nursery is all about food with real flavour and providing a wide range of dessert, cider, culinary and miniature apple tree varieties to the public," Mr Robertson said.

"People are demanding access to high-quality, fresh and flavoursome produce. What better way to satisfy this demand than by offering fruit trees that can be grown in a backyard, or on decks and patios."

Mr Robertson said the income from tree sales will be used to preserve the Grove Heritage Nursery for future generations.

"We take our role in preserving Australia's largest collection of heritage apple trees very seriously. It is a resource of national significance and every tree sold enables us to further our work and care for the 800 varieties on site." 

For more information visit http://appletreesforsale.com.au/