Good news for avocado lovers and the WA agritourism businesses that cater to them! Groundbreaking research from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is set to improve the consistency and quality of Western Australian avocados, creating exciting new possibilities for agritourism experiences.
What’s the Scoop?
A six-year research project, co-funded by DPIRD and Hort Innovation Australia, has yielded promising results for WA’s burgeoning avocado industry. Here’s what you need to know:
- Tackling the Alternate Bearing Challenge: A key focus of the research was addressing the issue of “alternate bearing” in avocado trees, a natural phenomenon that causes significant fluctuations in yield from one year to the next.
- Thinning for Success: Trials conducted at a commercial avocado orchard in Manjimup demonstrated that strategic fruit thinning – specifically, leaving one fruit per inflorescence (flower cluster) – led to more consistent yields over a three-year period. This means a more reliable supply of high-quality avocados for consumers and businesses alike.
- Quality Remains Key: Importantly, the research confirmed that fruit thinning did not negatively impact fruit size, tree growth, or the vital mineral content of the avocados.
Beyond Thinning: More Wins for the Industry
The research project didn’t stop at thinning. Here are some additional outcomes:
- Early Disease Detection: A simple yet effective early disease detection technique was developed, enabling growers to identify potential issues before harvest. This proactive approach will help optimize orchard management, minimize losses, and ensure the delivery of top-notch avocados to consumers.
- Harvest Timing Optimization: A novel machine designed to measure dry matter levels in avocados was successfully calibrated during the project. This technology is crucial for determining optimal harvest timing, ensuring that avocados reach consumers at peak flavor and quality.
Agritourism Opportunities Ripe for the Picking
This research has exciting implications for WA’s agritourism sector:
- Promote WA’s Avocado Excellence: Share the story of this cutting-edge research with your visitors, highlighting WA’s commitment to producing premium, sustainably grown avocados.
- Develop Avocado-Centric Experiences: Capitalize on the growing popularity of avocados by creating unique agritourism experiences, such as:
- Behind-the-Scenes Orchard Tours: Offer insights into the avocado growing process, from flowering to harvest, incorporating information about the latest research findings.
- Avocado-Themed Tastings and Workshops: Host events celebrating the versatility of avocados with cooking demonstrations, tastings featuring avocado-based products, and educational workshops on growing and harvesting.
- “Pick-Your-Own” Adventures: (Seasonally) Offer visitors the chance to harvest their own avocados, providing a fun and engaging way to learn about this beloved fruit.
By embracing these advancements in avocado production and sharing the excitement with visitors, WA agritourism businesses can cultivate even more appealing and enriching experiences, all while supporting a thriving local industry.
Image Credit: Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development – DPIRD research scientist Declan McCauley has led research at Manjimup to build the capacity of WA’s emerging avocado industry.
