Protecting NSW cherries ready for export

21 Oct 2016

NSW horticulture industries can be protected with release of the latest Orchard plant protection guide for deciduous fruits in NSW, aimed to assist growers to safeguard their valuable orchards and increase production.

NSW Department of Primary Industries, Temperate Fruits Development Officer, Kevin Dodds said the Orchard plant protection guide for deciduous fruits is developed by DPI to provide orchard owners with up-to-date information on all aspects of protecting their orchards from pests and diseases.

“The guide covers a range of horticultural industries including cherries, apples, pears, apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums and prunes,” Mr Dodds said.

“This practical guide provides technical information on crop protection for orchards, covering Queensland fruit fly management, management of disease, pests and disorders, plant nutrition and effective pesticide use.

“NSW DPI is committed to support our horticultural growers and provide them with the tools they need to achieve sustainable, productive and profitable orchards.

Mr Dodds said in this year’s publication a section has been developed with Apple and Pear Australia Limited to assist growers on how to get started to export their produce.

“Increasing exports has been identified as one of the key ways growers can remain profitable and the industry to expand in the future,” Mr Dodds said.

DPI Senior Project Officer International Engagement, Dr Fay Haynes, said in 2015-16 NSW exported 1043 tonnes of cherries valued at $8.7 million, which is 11 per cent share of the Australian cherry export value.

“Our ability to gain access to and engage with international markets underpins product value and therefore makes a significant contribution to business profitability,” Dr Haynes said.

“To further build the potential for cherry export opportunities, the NSW DPI will lead the development and implementation of a ‘seasonal pest absence approach’ to address importing country biosecurity requirements.

“This two year project aims to ensure NSW cherries are Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) free by collecting QFF trapping data for promotion of mitigation practices to be used to count towards gaining and increasing domestic and international market access.”

The Orchard plant protection guide for deciduous fruits in NSW 2016-17 publication is available on the DPI website

Media contact: Anne Brook (02) 6763 1163 or 0477 358 305