28 February 2023

Riverland

Comments by E.E. Muirs’ Area Manager and Agronomist, Craig Simes

“High crop loads are evident throughout the region, with chemical thinning applications not being as effective this season. A higher proportion of small sized fruit will negatively impact grower returns. Given the season is several weeks behind there is still time for foliar applications of potassium to maximise fruit size. Campbells Nitro K and Campbells Diamond Special K are ideally suited.

Copper sprays are important to manage fungal diseases of fruit and foliage. Successful disease prevention requires even coverage and good retention of copper on plant surfaces. A superior wetter such as Wetcit (applied at 0.05%, 50mL per 100L) will greatly improve the distribution of spray droplets, providing even coverage and reduced pooling. This reduces the risk of phytotoxicity from excessive copper residues on portions of plant surfaces.” – Contact Craig on 0400 670 593 or csimes@eemuir.com.au

Comments by E.E. Muirs’ Regional Manager (Riverland and Sunraysia), Jacob Buhagiar

“Pest pressure in the region is still a key concern. KCT monitoring and further fruit fly outbreaks are front of mind for the South Australian citrus industry.

With flooding now flowing out to the Murray Mouth, water levels are getting back to normal. Soil health will need to be a focus, and soil testing will need to be completed and planned around improving soil structure.” – Contact Jacob on 0417 832 501 or jbuhagiar@eemuir.com.au