New Zealand's North Island saw a cool and wet winter, which as always, makes the planting of seed onions challenging at times.
© Balle Bros
"Planting starts in June and was finished by the end of August," said Simon Vale from Balle Bros. "Our production team took advantage of any dry spells to drill, and all crops were planted within the appropriate time frame."
The spring weather was initially cool and cloudy, but for the last 4-5 weeks it has been a lot warmer with sunnier weather.
© Balle Bros
"We have already started harvest of our very early varieties which will be marketed locally. The main export harvest is expected to start at the beginning of January all going well. All crops are well positioned and looking healthy. We expect to have another good quality harvest with a normal spread of sizes."
According to figures from Onions NZ a result of a few years of challenging marketing conditions the area of onions planted in New Zealand is now at its lowest level in 30 years at 4,174 hectares.
For more information:
Simon Vale
Balle Bros. Exports Ltd.
Tel: + 64 9 2370898
Email: [email protected]
www.ballebros.co.nz
