Record numbers of lemons are expected to be harvested in Far North Queensland (FNQ) this summer, helping the Australian industry achieve its goal of supplying Australian lemons year-round. Increased numbers of lemons are also expected from central and southern Queensland.
The projected record summer crop is a result of expansion in the FNQ citrus industry and good weather. “We have seen expansion of existing orchards, as well as the implementation of new orchards, in FNQ over the past three to four years, and these trees are now coming into production,” said Citrus Australia Chief Executive Officer Nathan Hancock. “There has been good weather through the flowering and fruit set stages, which is resulting in a heavy crop.”
Growers have been conducting spot picks from October through December, with full harvest underway from January to March. Weather conditions have been ideal for the early harvest period, and local growers are hopeful this continues.
Lemons are typically imported into Australia from the United States and Egypt over summer to meet consumer demand because lemons from southern Australia are not able to meet demand. The number of lemon imports has been declining since 2014 as Australian production in summer has grown.
“Our industry has made a concerted effort to meet the demand of Australian consumers for Australian lemons in summer, and it’s a credit to our growers that we’re now in this position,” Hancock said. “With Christmas approaching, we know Australians love to squeeze lemon juice on their fresh seafood, whip up fresh lemonade for a hot day, and add a slice to cocktails and Coronas. They can do so this year knowing there will be more fresh Aussie lemons grown by Australian farmers.”
Citrus Australia, which represents the nation’s commercial citrus growers, is a non-profit company established in 2008. It has more than 300 grower and affiliate members.
Source: Citrus Australia
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