July 13, 2026 | Fruitnet |
Australia’s 2026 Pineapple Field Days will showcase innovations and research aimed at improving the productivity, quality, and sustainability of the country’s fresh pineapple industry. The event will bring together growers, researchers, and industry partners to demonstrate emerging technologies and practical farming solutions.
Key highlights include a selective “pick and leave” harvesting system that combines machinery and camera technology to identify pineapples at optimal ripeness, enabling fruit to be harvested individually rather than all at once. The approach is expected to improve fruit quality, harvesting efficiency, and worker safety. Demonstrations of drone technology will also show how aerial systems can support crop monitoring, farm management, and security.
Researchers will present progress from the 73-50 clonal selection program, which has identified promising pineapple clones with more consistent performance and reduced natural flowering, as well as updates on breeding programs for future fresh-market varieties. Sustainable farming practices, including zero-tillage planting and sediment retention ponds, will also be featured to improve soil and water management, reduce erosion, and protect surrounding waterways. The event highlights the industry’s continued investment in technology, genetics, and environmental stewardship.
