Plant And Food research scientist Dr Annette Richardson was recognised for her extensive work on bud break, a crucial stage in the growth cycle of kiwifruit, to support grower returns with increased yields.
“Collaboration is a vital part of the sector’s success, and Plant And Food Research is fortunate to be working alongside great partners such as Zespri, New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated, Kiwifruit Vine Health and the Kiwifruit Breeding Centre as well as Kiwifruit growers,” said Richardson.
As an expert in plant physiology, she explored kiwifruit growing techniques to support future production throughout her almost 40-year career. She also introduced Hi-Cane in 1988, a bud break enhancer applied to vines in winter.
Used once per year in kiwifruit orchards, Hi-Cane promotes uniform bud break of flowers and maximises the production of high-quality kiwifruit.
“Dr Richardson’s knowledge of plants and how they grow under varying conditions has helped the industry remain resilient while also helping pave the way for a more sustainable future,” said Zespri Chairman Bruce Cameron.
“Her work in researching kiwifruit bud break and vines, in new cultivar development and in supporting the industry’s ongoing use of Hi-Cane through modifying it for new gold and red varieties, as well as its alternatives, has helped shape the way kiwifruit is grown and ensured the industry can adapt to meet the growing demand for kiwifruit around the world and return more value to growers and our communities.”.
Research that is targeted, sustained and innovative is vital to the continuing success of New Zealand kiwifruit in a world that is facing environmental challenges and ever-increasing costs, and Dr. Richardson’s work focuses both on the science and the development of real-world solutions that will benefit growers and the industry.
