With National Science Week highlighting science-driven innovation, a project that turns agricultural waste into soil inputs has shown practical outcomes for Australian almond growers.
Funded by Hort Innovation and delivered by the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), the whole orchard recycling project is examining the use of end-of-life trees as a soil amendment. The process involves chipping old trees and incorporating the material into the soil to increase soil carbon, improve structure, and assist in establishing new plantings. The approach has been adapted from practices used in perennial crop production in California.
© Hort Innovation
A three-year trial, conducted in a commercial orchard near Merbein, Victoria, compared whole orchard recycling with compost applications and untreated control plots over three growing seasons. Results showed a 30 per cent increase in soil organic carbon in the whole orchard recycling treatment, along with consistent tree growth and orchard establishment.
According to Hort Innovation CEO Brett Fifield, regenerative practices such as whole orchard recycling can reduce reliance on external inputs, improve soil function, and lower emissions. "We know sustainability is a focus for growers, so through projects like this, we are aiming to create solutions that will help achieve climate goals while also having holistic benefits for growers," he said.
In addition to increasing soil organic carbon, the process was found to reduce nitrate leaching, helping to retain nutrients in the root zone and support long-term soil fertility. This creates favourable conditions for young trees during establishment.
Paul Petrie, Principal Scientist – Viticulture and Program Leader of Irrigated Crops at SARDI, said the collaboration with almond growers and Hort Innovation has demonstrated the potential of the practice to improve productivity and offset some carbon emissions.
The findings add to industry knowledge on soil management practices aimed at improving orchard sustainability and adapting to changing environmental conditions.
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© Hort InnovationFor more information:
Shannon O'Mara
Horticulture Innovation Australia
Tel: +61 427 142 537
Email: [email protected]
www.horticulture.com.au