CONFIDENCE in fruit quality is high among Riverland citrus growers who have begun harvest, however, the COVID-19 emergency means potential for export is “largely unknown”.
Ramco-based Lochert Bros operations manager James Lochert (pictured), who started harvesting in April, said the quality of fruit this year – both in terms of appearance and size – was an improvement on 2019.
“We’ve been going for about three weeks and the quality looks quite good at this time,” Mr Lochert said.
“There’s not as much blemishing as we had last season, so the quality is probably better than what we had this time last year.”
Mr Lochert said recent rainfall in the region would benefit varieties of citrus – such as the late navel orange – that had longer to grow before harvesting.
However, Mr Lochert said transport and shipping uncertainty caused by the coronavirus outbreak could delay citrus exports to key international markets.
“(Exports) are all largely unknown at the moment,” he said.
“It will depend on each country and how they react, and what their policies are coming out of this situation.
“The demand is there, but everything being closed down will affect how we can export to some countries.”
Mr Lochert advised Riverland growers to follow the guidance of packhouses to ensure the highest returns for all growers.
“Make sure your staff are well trained,” he said.
“Pick to what the market needs. Packhouses are usually pretty good at letting the growers know what they need, so harvesting at a rate quicker than the packhouse requires tends to put downward pressure on prices.
“So picking only what is required will work towards everyone’s benefit.”