Our fourth and final industry expert from our winter 2023 edition of SA Farmer. Citrus SA chair Mark Doecke chats all things citrus in the Riverland including varieties, fruit development, weather conditions and challenges.
Which citrus varieties are currently being harvested, and which will be harvested over the winter?
At the moment only very early mandarin varieties are being harvested. Early navels like M7 and Navelina started around the end of April.
How have cooler temperatures in spring and summer impacted the development of fruit?
The cold spring experienced in 2022 had a big impact on early fruit size as these varieties need to grow early to finish early.
Other varieties have benefited from the cooler summer with a reduction in sunburn and more mild temperatures to help growth rates.
Are growers confident in the volume and quality of fruit at the moment?
The fruit volume is above average and the quality is good as SA growers always strive for the best quality possible.
Will there be an increase in total volumes compared to last year?
Volumes will be up slightly as more young plantings start to produce and this trend will continue in the coming years.
Are citrus growers still confident fruit fly can be eradicated from the region?
The fruit fly fight has become fairly lengthy over two years and some growers are becoming negative, but with the resources PIRSA and industry have put into fight this pest we will win the battle.
Our most effective tool is Sterile Insect Technology flies and, as production of these is about to double, the outlook for controlling fruit fly is very positive.
Have challenges surrounding international shipping eased?
Shipping has become more available and prices to ship internationally have dropped to pre-Covid levels, so that’s one win our industry has had for the 2023 season.
What factors are most important for tree health during winter?
During winter, trees slow right down and growth is very minimal. As we head into spring, growers need to be aware of their nutrition program to ensure healthy trees.