Kiwifruit

In Field Inspections » Skeltons technical advisors on the road visiting kiwifruit growers particularly at key times around crop growth stages, taking note of what’s happening with the vines, fruit and soil (ground). We have an inherent understanding of the kiwifruit production cycle and the experience to identify solutions to problems.  Our objective, unbiased advice is given freely at no charge. We provide our growers with verbal advice when we visit as part of our normal rounds – we often see things that the grower may not have noticed evolving over days or weeks, plus we’re aware of what’s happening on vineyards (or is it orchards?) around the region, so we pass on information and solutions. If we’re called on to make a visit to look at specific matters of concern, we can either make verbal or written reports, outlining the issues and making recommendations for solutions. Contact a Skeltons technical advisor if you would like one to visit your kiwifruit orchard. Crop protection programmes » Skeltons fully understands the Zespri crop protection programme and assists growers to implement this. Nutritional Programmes » With well-trained eyes and sound science to back us, Skeltons technical advisors can assess and provide advice on what nutrients may be deficient in your soils and plants, and how this may be remedied. We have developed comprehensive nutritional programmes for both green and gold kiwifruit that are available to our customers.   We also make suggestions on appropriate actions if we identify any issues during our in-field inspections. Organic Production Advice » Skeltons has been at the forefront of organic production in horticulture and viticulture.  Malcolm Crawford, one of Skeltons longest serving technical advisors, who is now supporting the field team technically, is considered a pioneer and his expertise is sought after by both industry and grower alike.  Malcolm and others in the Skeltons team have been instrumental in developing specific recommendations for crop protection and nutritional programmes in organics. Contact a Skeltons technical advisor if you wish to discuss aspects regarding organic production. Harvest Equipment» Skeltons and Farmlands stores have or can source stocks of all equipment needed to successfully harvest kiwifruit crops. Soil and Leaf Testing » Skeltons has a close association with specialist nutrient analysis experts, Hill Laboratories.  Our technical advisors can take soil and plant samples at the appropriate time and using the information determined by Hill’s comprehensive testing, prepare reports that identify any issues and give unbiased recommendations on remedial action. These test results form a base line that we then use in assessing and addressing your soil’s nutritional levels and your crop’s nutritional requirements in subsequent years. Contact us if if you would like a soil or leaf sample test undertaken by a Skeltons technical advisor. Property Mapping » Maps are often required to assist with production or export processes. They are also very handy for general operations.  We are able to produce quality property maps for customers using map writing computer software.  These maps can be as broad or as detailed as you need. Contact one of our technical advisors. Weather Monitoring » Skeltons technical advisors keep a sharp eye on the weather through in house monitoring services with access to HortPlus or Metris data to ensure that we anticipate the protection needs crops at critical times. We can also sign growers up onto weather forecasting services specific to the region if required.