April 2024
Have you had your say about Freshcare?
If you’d like to provide feedback on Freshcare, you’d better get in quickly. The survey closes on Friday, April 5.
When filling out the survey, take a detailed look at the number of regulatory and compliance systems citrus growers adhere to – the list is quite extensive, and it is worth emphasising the number which impact you.
Freshcare, in partnership with Hort Innovation, is asking for input into an industry-wide grower survey to help businesses and exporters meet regulatory requirements more efficiently, giving Australian agriculture a trade advantage.
The project is focused on how Regulatory Technology (RegTech) could be used to reduce the level of system duplication that exists for grower businesses related to compliance with industry, regulatory and crop specific requirements.
Freshcare’s grower survey will help assess the level of compliance responsibilities for grower businesses in the horticulture industry, identifying the factors contributing to regulatory challenges faced by participants.
CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE THE SURVEY (estimated time 5-10 minutes)
Results of the survey will be used to understand the factors impacting growers, including time, costs, training requirements and broad number of systems to determine:
Level of duplication across systems
Cost of system compliance for grower businesses
Business case for removing duplication using Regulatory Technology (RegTech).
Fruit fly fruit movement restrictions and regulations
Are you aware of the restrictions and regulations around fruit movement this harvest? PIRSA has set out guidelines which can be found by referring the email sent out by Citrus SA on Friday, March 29.
Melbourne trip – POSTPONED
The proposed study tour to Melbourne in May has been postponed due to limited interest. We hope to reschedule at another time.
Importance of copper application
Copper plays a crucial role in managing fungal diseases both before and after harvest, including brown rot, greasy spot, and septoria, which are significant concerns across all fruit markets. Application of copper is necessary for all varieties, starting with M7 and Navelina and potentially extending to Afourer and Tango where access between rows is challenging. In orchards with heavy crops where fruits are nearing the ground, special attention must be given to ensure thorough coverage, particularly on the lower parts of the trees.
Effective coverage of the copper spray is paramount. Copper isn't systemic, so particle size matters; generally, smaller particles are more effective. The spray recommendation varies depending on the stage and type of fruit:
All Varieties including Valencia: Copper should be applied according to label rates to control diseases like Septoria, Greasy Spot, Phytophthora, and issues related to Anthracnose.
For wind blemish reduction, the use of high-quality red copper has shown better results compared to blue copper. Growers opting for red copper may observe lighter blemishes, which positively impact pack-outs and returns.
All citrus varieties should be sprayed at label rates, starting with the earliest maturing ones. Some important notes to consider when using copper:
Ensure thorough agitation and follow specific copper label recommendations.
Do not mix copper with other products like GA and nutrients.
Allow fruit to dry completely before nightfall, especially in humid conditions.
Avoid applying copper to wet fruit, particularly when cells are turgid, such as early morning or after rain.
Maintain a tank mix pH above 6.0 to prevent fruit burn due to copper ion accumulation.
Certain copper products can be mixed with summer oil following label directions, which can help with issues like sooty mould, red scale, mealybug, or mites.
Varieties like Imperial and Afourer are sensitive to copper marks; consider applying high-quality red copper under optimal conditions. Adjusting label rates and water volumes may also be necessary, especially for early applications with row access issues.
Allow a 14-day gap after applying copper spray before re-entering the orchard with foliar sprays, including 2,4-D.
If an oil spray has been recently applied, wait 2-3 weeks before applying copper spray.
New copper formulations on the market may also improve fruit firmness, reduce splits, and show fewer instances of albedo; consult with your chemical reseller for more information, especially considering current shipping challenges.
April production tips
Copper sprays: Aim to begin your copper application at the start of April to help minimise any fungal diseases. Spray by variety order starting with early navels and mandarins, Mid-season navels, Cara Cara’s, Bloods and mandarins and then late season navels and mandarins.
Stop Drop 2,4D application: Start applications from mid-April but make sure that its applied at least two weeks minimum after your last copper application.
Autumn GA: Consult your agronomist about rates and your packer regarding your harvest strategy. Delaying or lengthening your harvest window coming into a year with so many uncertainties could prove to be beneficial.
Quality control: Continue removing sunburnt fruit, removing now while visible will help aid with your pack out.
*This advice is general in nature and you should always check with your chemical reseller, agronomist or packing shed.