Early signals from the grove: Insights for smarter irrigation

AHR’s Demetrio Bruno was back in the field this month, visiting Tolga in Far North Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands.

This site visit, part of the four year Avocado Irrigation Project, was all about getting a firsthand look at how the Hass blocks are tracking as harvest soon approaches.

“Year 1 of the project is especially exciting because it’s the first picking year for these trial blocks,” Demetrio said.

“As we enter this important stage of yield assessment, every reading, probe adjustment, and observation helps provide growers with the knowledge and tools to manage irrigation more effectively, improve fruit quality, and ultimately optimise returns.”

Demetrio met with Mark Delai from Delais Orchards on site to check on sensors, install a new soil moisture probe, and take dry matter readings on 72 Hass fruits. These readings provide early insights into differences between irrigation treatments.

“This is critical information as we prepare for full yield assessments starting in mid-April,” Demetrio said.

All sampled Hass fruit was also sent for laboratory testing to validate the accuracy of the readings along with fruit weight and diameter recorded for each sample. This combination of on-site measurement and lab validation ensures that the early signals are reliable and actionable.

This on-site inspection marks the first of several across Australia, with upcoming stops at
• Costa Avocado (Childers, Central QLD)
• Chislett Farms (Tristate region)
• Jasper Farms (WA)

With early data already coming in, the project is beginning to provide insights into how different irrigation treatments are tracking, offering an initial view of fruit quality and trends ahead of the full harvest.

Funding statement:
The Improving avocado irrigation efficiency and effectiveness in Australia (AV23013) project is funded by Hort Innovation using the Avocado Research and Development levy.