In Victoria and southern New South Wales, growers experienced a slightly below average winter rainfall followed by a very cold, dry spring.
Whilst an earlier than usual budburst brought optimism, growth was setback by a 0° C frost on 10 November.
Thanks to frost fans, most orchards were protected.
However, one grower reported that a new block of 800 trees suffered about 10 per cent damage.
“Overall, we are happy with the fruit set in both Jiro and Fuyu varieties, but in addition to the late frost, we are also getting a lot of strong winds that have led to some branch losses,” Persimmon Australia president and grower Chris Stillard said.
The tri-state region saw a typically slower start to the season, with budburst commencing 14-18 days later than last year.
The upside is growth has been excellent, with ideal growing conditions despite the region experiencing a very dry spring, with less than 20mm of rain in October and November.
With flowering complete across all varieties, growers are now waiting to see the natural level of fruit drop in late December to give consideration to thinning.
At this stage some growers are predicting Jiro yields may be down by about 10 per cent on last year.
Fuyu, on the other hand, is performing exceptionally well, and may well build on last season’s bumper crop.
“If we get a reasonable set, it looks promising,” according to Renmark based persimmon grower, Craig Burne.
“Overall, I expect to be packing similar tonnes to last year if the set holds,” he says.
Last season’s prices were strong, and the typical mid-season Jiro glut in April was less pronounced, indicating consumer demand is keeping pace with production.
As growers reflect on the challenges and successes of the last season and look to the 2026 crop, the importance of collaboration and shared learning comes into focus.
The upcoming 2026 Australian Persimmon Industry Conference and Field Day, to be held February 3-4 in Toowoomba, arrives at a pivotal moment, offering growers a chance to discuss the season’s lessons, explore new ideas and discuss the issues facing the industry.
“This industry event brings together growers from every region, along with world-class researchers, on-farm agronomists and leading persimmon marketers,” Chris adds.
“It’s a chance to learn from each other at a time when sharing knowledge between growers from different regions is vital,” he says.
Toowoomba, with its rich agricultural heritage and proximity to several persimmon orchards, provides an ideal setting for these conversations.
Growers and industry stakeholders will have the opportunity to participate in technical sessions, networking events and orchard visits, all designed to foster the exchange of practical knowledge and innovation.
“Growers will leave with new ideas, technical insights and connections that strengthen the industry,” says Persimmon Australia executive officer Alison Fuss.
“It’s about learning, sharing and being inspired by the innovation that’s shaping the future of persimmons in Australia,” she says.
For more information on the 2026 Australian Persimmon industry conference and field day, go to https://www.persimmonsaustralia.com.au/news/2026-persimmon-industry-conferenceand-field-day-save-the-date/ or contact Persimmons Australia on 0491 689 259 or admin@persimmonsaustralia.com.au.
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