The Western Australian Government is investing $1.2 million in a national project to boost production of premium fruit for consumers by using sustainable and highly productive orchards.
The research at the State Government’s Manjimup Horticulture Research Institute is focused on increasing apple production from high density plantings in a narrow orchard system.
The 2D orchard design allows for better light distribution through the tree canopy which encourages earlier fruiting, as well as improved fruit uniformity, colour and size.
“Narrow orchard systems are the future of modern fruit production – improving quality, productivity and profitability,” said Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis.
“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.”
There is growing evidence from Europe that narrow orchard systems create more sustainable businesses with less waste, improved labour use and greater profitability.
The project will also explore the use of mechanisation, robotics, sensors and other AgTech to create more efficient orchard management.
Options being considered include autonomous ground vehicles, such as a mower and/or sprayer, to reduce labour costs and irrigation soil and plant sensors to tailor water use and maximise water use efficiency.
The five-year national Hort Innovation project is a collaboration with other states, universities and industry.
These included Pomewest and local AgTech business Tobias Industries, and will develop guidelines for narrow orchard systems and tools for a range of fruit businesses.