On the back of one of the coldest weeks Hawke’s Bay has seen in a long while – -6 °c reported in parts on Friday 07/08 and snow to low levels on Tuesday 04/08 – we’re also seeing hints of spring. Bud burst has been reported in the first of the grape blocks, and some sheltered areas of stone fruit are well advanced – spring is sneaking in the door. Given the critical nature of the spring growing period, and the potential for multi season impacts, it’s integral to ensure everything you can control is well organised:
- Sprayer calibrations – Chemical thinning will come around fast and inadequate thinning can lead to biennial bearing. Similarly, weather conditions into spring are likely to bring strong El Nino winds so ensuring you achieve optimal coverage will mitigate risk.
- Water – El Nino is coming on the back of a dry winter for parts of the Heretaunga. While we don’t know exactly how this will play out, water stress can cause premature termination of growth and trigger low production. Make sure your irrigation systems are checked, serviced, and ready to go as recent frost events have created a range of damage and controlling water stress is a key pillar of success.
- Fuel – Uncertainty continues and fuel prices continue to be volatile. Before the season kicks off in earnest, it is timely to check on farm security to limit the opportunity for thieves. Also timely to also ensure all plant and machinery is operating as efficiently as possible – well serviced, reliable machines will limit the total seasonal fuel bill.
- Frost & Wind – We are forecast to head into a super El Nino event, however forst risk is expected to remain within the normal range and equinox winds will not be far off. A good time to ensure that all management methods available can be readily implemented – For frost, short grass swards, under tree irrigation, bare moist earth within weed strips, and urea foliar sprays can make 0.5 – 1.0°C difference. For wind, shelter and tree training are the pillars – make sure adequate tree support is in play;
- Fertiliser – If any soil nutrients need adjusting into their optimal ranges, this needs to be completed prior to budburst. If not already done, urgency will be needed!
- Development – If you’re undertaking development, make sure the fundamentals of establishment are right. Right depth, right conditions, and right protocols. Ensure trees are rehydrated prior to planting, that they are placed at the right depth, and soil is properly prepared for good contact when firming them into the ground.
- Orchard Hygiene – Winter conditions across the plains have been mixed, with notably dry areas. If you in a dry and cold area where leaf decay has not fully occurred, be wary of blackspot infection. Sweeping and mulching prior to green tip can help reduce infection pressure.
- Gray Matter – There’s no substitute to getting your own head in order leading into the system. Checklists / brainstorms / work programmes – use whatever works for you. Think laterally, be analytical, be realistic on your resources and you’ll be set!
If you feel something strategic is missing or are looking to invest in another pair of boots to give a second opinion, give AgFirst a call.
Carl O’Brien
