Kanzi® apple growers are predicting a record crop with harvest of the popular apple variety set to begin in days. This season’s volume is forecast to exceed 5,800 tonnes of Kanzi apples, an 11 percent increase on last year.
Good weather conditions and a diligent tree planting program have resulted in a steady and sustainable lift in Kanzi apple supply. Horticulture Brand Management Australia Pty Ltd (HBMA) General Manager, Ms Elisa King said the strong volume of quality fruit would support a longer season and increased availability.
“We’ve had good growing conditions, with orchard regions thankfully unaffected by the recent floods. While a significant investment in netting protected the crops from early season hailstorms,” said Ms King.
“Another key factor driving the sustained lift in volume is our decade-long, tree planting program, which is now literally bearing fruit. This will help us keep up with demand and maintain quality supply into summer, with Aussies expected to munch through 34 million Kanzi apples this year.”
Kanzi apples, a blend of sweet Gala and tangy Braeburn, were introduced to Australia 14 years ago and have become a firm favourite thanks to their delicious sweet and tangy taste, a juicy crunch and vibrant red and yellow colouring. Only premium, first-class fruit can be sold as a Kanzi® apple.
Kanzi apples are grown in 75 orchards around Australia, including growing regions of Batlow (NSW), Yarra Valley (Vic), Adelaide Hills, Manjimup (WA) Stanthorpe (QLD) and Huon (Tas). More than 40 Kanzi growers recently met in the Adelaide Hills and toured the Ceravolo and Flavell Orchards, who are fourth and third generation orchardists respectively.
The growers discussed the season, potential markets, orchard insights and attended agronomist briefings. It’s part of HMBA’s collaborative approach to working with growers and setting new
benchmarks in quality fresh produce.
“Kanzi is still a relatively new variety in Australia and it’s a valuable opportunity to come together to share best practice learnings with other growers, as well as collectively plan for the future,” said Matthew Flavell, third generation orchardist from Adelaide Hills.
The Kanzi apples will be available Australia-wide in major supermarkets, independent supermarkets and greengrocers from late March until Summer.
For more information:
Kanzi®
https://kanziapple.com/au/