Favourable weather conditions and the ability to manage overcast conditions when they strike, has helped at least one major capsicum (pepper) farm in Tasmania thrive during the 2014/2015 season. “The growing season so far regarding the weather has been an easier year than last,” notes Karen Whitener, Marketing Assistant for Kapiris Bros (Vic) Pty. Ltd. Harvesting is expected to continue into June, having started in September 2014, and the yield to date will be ‘up from last year’ according to Ms Whitener.
When it comes to pricing, the market has held quite stable, providing relief from previous fluctuations in earlier years, Ms Whitener says. “We haven’t had the huge highs that have been around in previous years of $7-$9 per kg, but also we haven’t had sustained prices of lows of $3-$4 per kg. It’s been a steady average.”
Quality and size have also both been quite consistent for the industrious farm, which targets the middle range size of 190-250 gram capsicums, to suit client preferences and loose and prepack requirements. Kapiris Bros uses a Dutch developed glasshouse industry software, known as PRIVA to monitor and control the climate inside its glasshouses, and that seems to be paying off in terms of yield and flavor. “This [monitoring] includes heating, ventilation, irrigation, screening, CO2 consumption, air circulation and humidification,” adds Ms Whitener.
Results have been so good that the company actively promotes glasshouse-produced capsicums over field grown ones. “Our capsicums are full of flavor as they are allowed to ripen on the plants in three varieties; green, red and yellow, which have a superior appearance, quality, taste and shelf life,” says Ms Whitener.
There is certainly the opportunity for export when it comes to Kapiris Bros produce, however Ms Whitener confirms that despite strong enquiry for export, all produce will continue to be sold locally.
Kapiris Bros farms also grows tomatoes in outdoor crops in Victoria, and there were some losses sustained through rain and unseasonably high humidity on that farm.
For more information
K
aren Whitener, Marketing Assistant
aren Whitener, Marketing AssistantKapiris Bros (Vic) Pty. Ltd
Phone: +61 3 9689 6711
E-mail: karenw@kapirisbros.com.au
Website: www.kapirisbros.com.au