Scientists and farmers are racing the clock to crack the secrets of Australia’s finest nut following the early arrival of this year’s macadamia blossoming.
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The blossoming gives researchers a short window to undertake study into pollination possibilities to boost the size and quality of the harvest.
Australia is the world’s largest commercial producer of macadamias, contributing more than 30 per cent of the global crop. Scientists are currently working with macadamia farmers on research including self- and cross-pollination techniques as part of an extensive research and development program.
Abnormal weather conditions meant blossoming began earlier than usual this year, signalling a longer growing season with the potential of a promising harvest if favourable conditions continue.
Despite originating in Australian rainforests more than 60 million years ago, maximising macadamia harvests through advances in pollination techniques has proved a ‘tough nut to crack’ for the fast growing commercial industry which exports approximately 70 per cent of all macadamias to more than 40 countries. Farms produce about 50,000 tonnes of the nut annually,
According to pollination scientist and research lead Brad Howlett (Plant and Food Research NZ), although bees may hold a key there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer, with the effectiveness of pollination methods largely depending on the breed of the tree.
"While we are in the early stages of our study, initial findings have all alluded to the fact that both honey and stingless bees do add a certain degree of value to pollination, regardless of the type of macadamia trees," Mr Howlett said.
“Cross-pollination (using bees and insects) has also delivered success, with one grower reporting an increase in product using cross-pollination techniques, compared to self-pollination.
The research project has been funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited using the macadamia industry levy and funds from the Australian Government.