More consistent yields and improved fruit development are among the benefits on the horizon for avocado growers across Australia, thanks to a new research initiative funded by Hort Innovation. 

Delivered in partnership with the CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, the project is developing a non-contact tree carbohydrate measurement method that is deployable at scale and will explore how carbohydrate dynamics influence avocado production. The insights are expected to support better informed orchard management decisions, leading to more profitable and sustainable returns for growers.  

Building on earlier research (AV19006), which demonstrated, in lab-based settings, the potential of a non-invasive light-based imaging tool (near-infrared spectroscopy) to estimate carbohydrate levels in avocado leaves and stems, this next phase will take the technology into the field. The aim is to develop a commercial-scale tool for orchard-wide carbohydrate monitoring, utilising AI and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). 

Brett Fifield, CEO at Hort Innovation, explained what this means for the industry: “Understanding how carbohydrate levels fluctuate in avocado trees is key to improving fruit set and yield reliability. However, growers currently lack access to the tools to monitor these dynamics. Through developing a commercial-scale solution, this project intends to fill that gap, supporting smarter orchard decisions, reduced yield variability and an increase in returns for growers.” 

With the avocado industry continuing to expand, this research lays the groundwork for future innovation in orchard management.

Project leader Everard Edwards from CSIRO explained: “Carbohydrates influence both crop loads and vegetative growth in avocado production. By pairing cutting-edge imaging technology with AI, we can explore how carbohydrate levels impact key stages of avocado production. These deeper insights into the physiological drivers of avocado production will help growers to fine-tune orchard management practices and respond to seasonal challenges.” 

The project is set to conclude in September 2027 and if successful, will proceed with testing the technology across regional Australia to ensure the method is applicable to all avocado growing regions. This would support the eventual commercialisation of the tool - bringing smart farming innovation to orchards nationwide.

This project is funded by Hort Innovation, using the avocado research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government.