Citrus industry IPDM extension program (CT19011)

What was it all about?

This program helped growers strengthen their ability to manage pests and diseases using integrated approaches, reducing reliance on chemicals and supporting more sustainable citrus production.

The project delivered practical tools and information that increased growers’ confidence and capability, including fact sheets, videos, webinars, Australian Citrus News articles and a new field identification guide covering major pests, beneficials, diseases and disorders. More than 60 workshops and farm walks were held across all major growing regions, giving growers hands‑on learning and access to specialists.

To create these resources, the project team first surveyed growers nationally to understand regional pest pressures, current practices and knowledge gaps. The team then established demonstration sites in key production regions to test and show alternative IPDM strategies in commercial orchards. These sites supported discussions on monitoring, biological control, cultural practices and the use of softer chemistry. Grower groups and regional advisor networks were also formed to share seasonal issues, improve decision‑making and promote new learnings.

As a result of this work, growers are better equipped to identify pests and beneficials, choose reduced‑impact options and incorporate monitoring into their management. Demonstration sites showed that IPDM strategies can maintain fruit quality while supporting biological control, reducing spray inputs and improving resilience as chemical options change. The new guide, fact sheets, videos and on‑farm learnings will continue to help the industry adopt sustainable, whole‑of‑system pest and disease management into the future.

ACT NOW

Resources developed by the project are available on the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website here.