March 2023
New Freshcare version about to be rolled-out this month
The new commodity specific Freshcare audit system has been rolled out for citrus growers. The program was developed through a partnership with Citrus SA and Freshcare to develop specific tools and resources to assist citrus growers with standards program management and preparation for audit.
The new version simplifies the record-keeping process and implementation of the Food Safety & Quality Standard version 4.2 for single or specific commodity crop growers.
Freshcare CEO, Jane Siebum says the resources align with the specific risks and needs per crop, ensuring certification is accessible while still fulfilling international benchmarking requirements.
“This is a great step forward in supporting growers’ certification journey and shows what can be achieved when industry works together.
Citrus growers should contact Freshcare direct (02 8039 9999 or 1300 853 508) to ask for the new system or follow up with any questions about how it all works. Freshcare staff are available and understand the new system.
Citrus SA is also seeking quotes from the audit companies to get the best deal under the new version. We will forward that information to growers when received.
Trial to immunise trees against HLB and Xylella
Hort Innovation will invest 8.7 million dollars to trial tree immunisations that protect Australia’s horticulture industries against the deadly Xylella and Huanglongbing (HLB) diseases. Hort Innovation chief executive Brett Fifield said the trees will be immunised with RNA-based technology - similar to coronavirus vaccines for humans. The RNA immunisations cause the tree’s cells to produce chemicals targeting specific pathogens.
“Xylella and HLB are two of the most threatening bacteria in fruit and nut trees worldwide, and if they found their way into Australia, the results would be catastrophic,” Mr Fifield said.
“While these threats are not in Australia currently, being ready is crucial.
“The trial will begin with citrus and table grapes, and we will explore opportunities for this technology in almonds, avocados, olives and summerfruit.”
The trial will be delivered through Hort Innovation and led by the US-based agricultural biotechnology company Silvec Biologics alongside the University of Queensland. The trial will employ a method developed by Silvec Biologics to immunise trees, vines and bushes against diseases. The researchers will combine this technology with elements of BioClay to improve how trees are immunised. Sap-sucking insects spread HLB through tree canopies, rapidly causing death, while Xylella is transmitted by propagation material and leaf-hopper insects. Xylella scorches and weakens leaves, which eventually causes the tree to die.
Study to look at how to strengthen food supply chains
How to improve the resilience of food supply chains is the aim of a study being conducted by a research team from the University of Tasmania.
It is hoping to engage fruit and vegetable growers, processors, distributors and retailers to take part in the study. It hopes to identify actions to make the industry better prepared for disruptions, enable a better response, a faster recovery and a stronger supply chain.
The survey will take about 15 minutes and all responses are anonymous.
Survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZHMYXJ6
March production hints and tips
Skirting: those that have registered for KCT should ensure that no more than one in 20 trees are touching the ground if registered for Korea and Thailand.
KCT Audit’s: Usually occur mid-late March. Ensure all monitoring records, spray diaries, calibration records and farm diary are all updated. Liaise with your packing shed for confirmation of audit dates.
Pruning and desuckering: Keep on top of this in both young and mature trees.
Irrigation: Continue to monitor soil moisture as we move into autumn and modify as required. The quality of the water from the river at the moment is poor so check irrigation systems and flush regularly. As the Darling river water arrives into South Australia water quality will not improve.
Fruit sizing: Thinning of patches with heavy crop loads will help promote sizing.
Nutrition: Take leaf samples for nutrient analysis to ensure effective fertilizer programs are implemented
Spraying: Seek professional advice before spraying oil/GA as this could retard colour development of particularly early maturing varieties. Consider your strategy for the application of copper in March as not only does this control pre-and post-harvest diseases but can be useful for snail control and some protection against frost.
Heat damage: While it has been a relatively cool summer, it could be worth inspecting trees for sunburn. Varieties such as Satsuma, Honey Murcott, Cara Caras and Amigos are most susceptible. Determine whether any fruit should be removed prior to harvest.