Dear Customers,

Now that macadamia flowering is completed, the results of nut set is reported as erratic in some areas. Some orchards that have been visited show exceptional nut set and yet others are not so good. The speculation for this has been suggested as nut variety, location and lack of bee activity at the crucial flowering stage.

Macadamia orchard spraying is well under way. It is pleasing that many growers are now adopting the higher spray volume rates to assist in fungicide and pest control relative to tree height and tree volume. The reduction of travel speed has also been pleasing so as to enhance sprayer performance relative to tree canopy volumes.

Please be reminded that we have available a Tornado AirSerg II demonstration unit for large tree spraying. This unit is ideal for large macadamia and avocado tree orchards. It is fitted with hydraulic adjustable spray tops and also features an electronic spray monitor. On farm demonstrations are available.

Soil Profiling is continuing in orchards throughout the area. It is considered that the end of November to early December is the latest that soil profiling in macadamia orchards should be completed. The reason for this is to allow the soil that has been moved be allowed time to settle and pack down for the impending harvest for next season. If you in the market for a Soil Profiler for next season, we have a demonstrator unit available for ‘on-farm’ demonstrations.

We have been re-appointed as TYM tractor dealers for the Lismore area. TYM are a Korean tractor manufacturer and produce a very good range of tractors suitable for the small acreage farmer up to the larger property owner. The most popular tractor in their range is the small T273 hydrostatic tractor fitted with a front end loader. This tractor is loader with features including industrial tyres, 2 range hydrostatic transmission, electro-hydraulic PTO engagement, power steering and differential lock. It also has cruise control on the transmission, split forward and reverse foot levers, 865kg of stable weight and a fold-down ROPS structure.

MONTHLY SPECIALS

REGARDS, GARY KEENE.