"We will start in about a week's time," explains Tony Siciliano from V.F. Siciliano & Sons, who have around 250 hectares in Swan Hill. "It's only 25 degrees just now and it should be a lot warmer. The stone fruit harvest will be 10-12 days later than normal, due to the cold weather."
For some varieties the cold and rain will mean a short crop, for nectarines it could as much as 20-30% lighter than expected, but this depends on the variety. Peaches should be fine but the plums and apricots will be very light.
As for quality, it's a bit early to say, but according to Tony, sugar levels are not where they should be. "If we get some some warm weather things will change, the trees are looking very healthy."
V.F. Siciliano & Sons will export nectarines to China for the first time this season, along with the other Australian exporters. "We are very excited about getting our protocols through and starting the export, which should be in the next 3-4 weeks."
"At first we will do airfreight and then seafrieght as the volumes increase, that will be in 5-6 week's time. Because the season is running late we will have wait a bit longer than usual for the big volumes and good sizes."
Tony has around 10 varieties registered for China, including the Diamond Pearl, Sierra Pearl, Magestic Pearl.
At the moment it is too early to say what volumes will be shipped to China.
The domestic market has good demand, but there has not been a lot of fruit on the markets. Demand will increase when when the weather warms up.
"Despite the delays, the region is looking great and we are looking forward to a successful stone fruit season, region wide," concludes Tony.
For more information:
Peter HollowayVF Siciliano & Sons
Phone: +61 3 50376583
Email: info@vfsfruits.com.au