T&G varieties

The global fresh produce company has sourced 16 of the latest and greatest genetics from breeders Plant & Food Research in New Zealand and US-based Fall Creek Farm and Nursery, and for the past two years has performed with successful trials of premium blueberries with selected growers. in five Australian states.

Danny Nightingale, Global Variety Marketing Manager at T&G, says what's exciting about this set of unique blueberry varieties is their ability to produce year-round fruit.

Blueberries all year round

“We know that Australians love blueberries, with more than 17.000 tonnes sold each year. With these unique premium varieties we will be able to grow blueberries all year round, compared to those currently available for only about eight months, ”says Danny.

“We are incredibly satisfied with the results of our tests, as the blueberries are larger in size and taste superior to what is currently available.

Genetics and variety

“Our commitment to ensuring the best genetics led us to travel the world to find unique plant varieties that meet consumer needs, which is what we find in these varieties from Plant & Food Research and Fall Creek Farm and Nursery. For the past two years, we have worked
alongside a team of passionate growers in Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales and Western Australia to test them out, so it's great to see it come together, with consumers able to experience them in late 2021."

Trials have included a mix of the new varieties, including Cargo, Last Call and Blue Ribbon. It is the first time these varieties have been grown in Australia, for the Australian market.

A prosperous future

With 30 hectares already planted and producing high-quality results, and another 30 hectares to be planted soon, T&G expects volumes to increase steadily in 2021. The blueberries will be sold under T & G's popular premium brand, Orchard Rd.

“This is a game changer for the local berry sector because we can now grow in Australia, for Australian consumers, all year round, without the need to import from other countries.”

Danny says the new varieties are performing well and growers are impressed. "They are easier to pick and the yield is significantly higher than other berry varieties, which is great news for growers because they will get more berries per hectare," he says.