As heatwaves persist, the future of fruit tree netting installations is looking bright. But is it the only solution? The recent heatwave in Australia's southeast has broken temperature records, leaving fruit growers with a critical question: How can they protect their crops from extreme heat?
For persimmon and avocado grower Craig Burne, the answer is netting. He's invested in overhead misting systems and netting infrastructure to help his crops survive the scorching heat. But is netting the future of fruit growing?
Kyle Lamont, sales director at G2 Netting Group, says netting sales have been on the rise in recent years, especially in regions like the Riverland, Sunraysia, and Goulburn Valley. Netting structures can maintain a more stable environment for crops, keeping them 2-3 degrees cooler during heatwaves.
However, some growers may not be able to afford netting, especially small fruit producers. Is there a place for these growers in the future of fruit growing?
While netting may not be a viable option for everyone, it's clear that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, and the impact on agriculture is significant. What does this mean for the future of fruit growing?
As researchers like Peng Bi from Adelaide University point out, heatwaves will continue to be a problem across the country. Mitigation and adaptation to climate change will be crucial for the future of agriculture.
For Burne, the question is whether to consolidate his crop varieties, moving away from less productive avocado orchards and replanting persimmons under netting. Is this the way forward for fruit growers?
While netting may not be the only solution, it's clear that it's playing an increasingly important role in the future of fruit growing. What do you think? Is netting the future of fruit growing, or is there another solution?
