Exploring Sustainable Practices and Innovations in Horticulture
The Soil Wealth ICP team recently completed an insightful International Study Tour in New Zealand, led by Dr. Doris Blaesing and Sophia Thach. This tour brought together a diverse group of growers, agronomists, and industry partners, all eager to learn about advanced soil management, crop health innovations, and sustainable farming practices over five informative days.
The tour culminated in the New Zealand Horticulture Conference, showcasing the country’s impressive commitment to sustainability and innovation within the horticultural sector. Sophia Thach remarked on the inspiring nature of the research and development efforts observed throughout the trip.
Several highlights from the tour underscored the innovative approaches taken by New Zealand’s horticultural industry:
- Vegetables NZ Summit: Participants were introduced to the ‘A Lighter Touch’ project, which aims to minimize environmental impact by promoting agroecological practices. This initiative reflects a shift towards reducing chemical use while enhancing resilience, especially among local growers impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle.
- LeaderBrand: The commitment to regenerative agriculture at LeaderBrand stood out, particularly their efforts in wetland rejuvenation and community involvement. Their holistic approach to sustainability integrates environmental stewardship with core business practices.
- AS Wilcox & Sons: This family-owned business exemplified sustainable farming through integrated pest management (IPM), composting, and the use of biological inputs. Their initiatives focus on improving overall soil health and supporting beneficial insect populations, which are critical for ecological balance.
- Greengrower: The innovative vertical production system at Greengrower was particularly captivating, producing over 20 varieties of leafy greens in half the time of traditional methods while using 95% less water. This approach signifies a promising future for efficient, sustainable food production.
- Plant & Food Research: A visit to this government-supported institute highlighted New Zealand’s dedication to scientific advancement in horticulture, arable farming, seafood, and food and beverage sectors, emphasizing sustainability and innovation.
- Horticulture New Zealand Conference: The conference addressed vital topics such as sustainability, climate change, food security, and health. Keynote speakers explored the interconnections between these issues and relevant policies, fostering lively discussions about the future of horticulture in New Zealand.
Sophia emphasized that New Zealand’s robust emphasis on research and development provides a model for Australia to aspire to. The tour reinforced the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing between the two nations.
Looking ahead, the Soil Wealth ICP team plans to compile a comprehensive summary of the tour, outlining key insights and takeaways. This presentation will encapsulate the experiences and learnings from the trip, and discussions are already underway to enhance collaboration with Vegetables New Zealand, ensuring that valuable innovations continue to be exchanged across borders.
