Wise Words

In this WiseWords episode, Shane and I discuss real-world approaches to managing soil compaction, drawing on recent visits with innovative orchardists.We share examples of growers implementing smart solutions—from installing drainage systems and using gravel to improve water flow, to fitting dual wheels on tractors to reduce soil pressure. The discussion then dives into key cultivation techniques like ground hogging and ripping, including when and how to use them effectively to avoid further compaction.The highlight of the episode is a closer look at Carlos’s orchard, where a unique male vine layout is enabling year-round ground cover through consistent dappled light. This system supports healthier soils, stronger root systems, and improved vine performance.Take a listen!

Biopesticides and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) have come up in a number of our recent conversations, so in this episode we step back and unpack what they really mean in practice.We explore what IPM is, how biopesticides fit into these systems, and then focus on a real-world example—the New Zealand kiwifruit industry’s KiwiGreen programme, widely recognised as a global leader in IPM.From the origins of KiwiGreen through to managing key pests and diseases like scale, leafrollers, and PSA, this episode highlights how combining cultural practices, selective chemistry, and biopesticides can deliver effective, low-residue crop protection systems at scale.

 How much nitrogen is actually enough — and how much is literally going down the drain?Sophie and Shane unpack an 8-year kiwifruit orchard study (reported in the April / May 2026 NZ Kiwifruit Journal by Steve Green, Katrina Knill and Owen Solomon) that’s changing the way growers think about nitrogen. From leaching losses to smarter timing (and yes, fewer pruning headaches), this episode is all about getting more out of less.Because when it comes to nitrogen… more isn’t always better.

Pollination might feel like a spring job—but the groundwork starts in winter.In this episode of Wise Words, Sophie and Shane dig into why early planning is critical for successful kiwifruit pollination. From building strong hives to strengthening relationships with beekeepers, they explore the small actions now that make a big difference later.They also unpack the latest insights from Zespri-backed research, including new tools for assessing hive health, what makes pollen more attractive to bees, and why some orchards may not be reaching optimal pollination performance.

Timely mid-May advice for kiwifruit growers, covering how red growers can reduce fruit drop risk next season, options for gold blocks still chasing size, key post-harvest spray considerations, and staying ahead of frost.

In this episode, Shane shares with NZ kiwifruit growers his tips for autumn Psa protection.