Almonds The Mildura region is a nationally significant nut growing region, specifically for almonds and pistachios.The Mildura region is one of five major almond growing regions in Australia, and is the fastest growing almond industry in the world.Approximately 70% of Australian almonds are produced in the Mildura region. Australia currently exports to more than 30 countries and it is forecast that Australia will surpass Spain to become the world’s second largest almond producer within the decade. Varietals Approximately half of the region’s almond plantations comprise the variety “Nonpareil” (Californian Paper Shell). For pollination purposes, the other 45% are made up largely of “Carmel” and “Price” varietals. Almonds are reliant on the honey bee industry for pollination. For further information see Mildura Region Economic Profile www.milduraregion.com.au Almond Board of Australia Select Harvests Limited Almondco Australia Limited |
Pistachios Commercial growing of pistachios commenced in the 1980s, and yields began to increase in the 1990s.There are about 25 pistachio growers in Australia (4 large and 21 smaller growers, with about 550 hectares of trees planted.Most pistachios produced are sold direct to supermarkets. Australian Pioneer Pistachio Company (APPC) is at the heart of the Australian pistachio industry. APPC recently completed the construction of a new hulling and grading plant at Robinvale, Victoria. Varietals Other varieties are present only in small numbers, with the Californian “Kerman” the most significant. Geographical Information Processing Facilities Hulling, drying, sorting & sale Pistachio Growers Association Inc. Australian Pioneer Pistachio Company Hulling and Grading Plant |