Hats Off to the IFTA Kiwi Hosts

From innovation to cultural practices, there’s a lot to take away from my trip with IFTA to the North and South Islands.

Whether it’s recovering from a devastating infection, or creating a software platform for detailed benchmarking, tree fruit growing for Kiwis is marked by a “No. 8 wire mentality.”

With a focus on exports, apple breeders are seeking to capture the demand for red color and sweetness, while also hitting marks for storability and shipping.

With a limited domestic market, Kiwi farmers focus on quality, red color to maximize returns.

Yield estimation, multi-row spraying part of the discussion during IFTA tour; seen as next steps in orchard management.

While availability is widespread in the states, the popular pome fruit is a managed variety for Kiwis.