The wetter than a normal Spring in Tasmania is making it difficult for growers to plant the crops according to Jim Ertler at Premium Fresh.
"All the onions are in and we are keeping our heads above water with all the other crops," said Jim. "All the crops went in on time and in relatively good conditions."
"Last season's crop was generally okay with good volumes and good a range of sizes. Our vegetable exports Asia and Europe were reasonably solid. However onions into mainland Australia wholesale market was very depressed with lock downs affecting the food service trade. The wetter East Coast Australian conditions have affected supply levels on the new season crop and this combined with increased demand post lock down has improved onion prices."
Jim said that due to uncertainty around Covid they have reduced the acreage of some lines while others have been maintained.
Conditions in Tasmania for growing broccoli have been good in recent years but prices always vary quite a lot and have been affected negatively by the recent cooler east coast conditions.
"We are due to start carrots at Christmas and early signs are quite positive but time will tell. Crops are growing quite slowly due to excess rainfall but we expect this to change in December with extra heat and day length.
"Freight and general costs are climbing which is reflected in returns. I believe supply to many markets domestic and overseas will be effected in some way by climbing production costs and freight costs."
For more information:
Jim Ertler
Premium Fresh Tasmania
Tel: +61 3649 888 88
Email: jim.ertler@premiumfresh.com.au
www.premiumfresh.com.au