The Cook Government has allocated $1.2 million towards a national initiative aimed at enhancing premium fruit production through the adoption of sustainable, high-yield orchard practices. This endeavor is being carried out at the Manjimup Horticulture Research Institute, with the goal of augmenting apple yields via high density plantings within a compact orchard framework.
This 2D orchard configuration is designed to optimize light penetration across the tree canopy, facilitating earlier fruiting phases alongside improvements in fruit uniformity, color, and size. Evidence from European studies indicates that such narrow orchard systems can lead to more sustainable operations, characterized by reduced waste, better labor efficiency, and increased profitability.
Furthermore, the project will assess the integration of mechanization, robotics, and advanced sensor technologies to streamline orchard management. Among the technologies under consideration are autonomous ground vehicles for mowing or spraying to cut labor costs, and the deployment of soil and plant sensors for precise irrigation, enhancing water use efficiency.
The five-year Hort Innovation project represents a collaborative effort involving various states, academic institutions, and industry partners, including Pomewest and Tobias Industries. This initiative aims to establish guidelines for narrow orchard systems and develop tools applicable across diverse fruit enterprises.
"Narrow orchard systems are the future of modern fruit production - improving quality, productivity and profitability. The Cook Government's significant investment in this research will help WA's valuable fruit industry to become more economically and environmentally sustainable with less food waste. Consumers will also get to enjoy the benefits of more consistent supplies of premium quality WA fruit." says Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis.
"Western Australia's Southern Forests region is home to a diverse range of premium produce, from Manjimup's famous truffles to internationally sought after avocados and of course Pink Lady apples. Technology is transforming the agriculture industry, and I am proud to be part of a Government that's investing in sustainability and the future." commented Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie.
Source: WA Government