An atypically rainy dry season has cast Queensland’s growers adrift, causing a lag of up to two months in their anticipated schedule. Amidst this meteorological anomaly, Heidi and Robert Piccolo have been navigating challenges on their flower farm, located south of Innisfail in the state’s northern reaches.
The Piccolos cultivate an array of vibrant blossoms, each bearing distinctive names like sassy, beehive, and shampoo gingers. Ordinarily, the dry season affords them the opportunity to execute essential tasks such as pruning, fertilizing, and crop preparation. However, standing amidst water that now inundates their paddocks, Mr. Piccolo remarked that this year’s uncharacteristic weather conditions have brought these activities to an abrupt standstill.
“The drying-out process is projected to extend over a significant number of weeks,” he conveyed. A visible consequence of this unforeseen inundation is a compromised ability to undertake regular fertilization practices, which in turn is likely to yield a reduced output of flowers. Elaborating on the matter, Mr. Piccolo shared, “Our production has been adversely affected, experiencing a decline of 40 percent in recent weeks.”
In elaborating on the situation, he cited a marked decline in flower yield, noting, “A mere 10 to 12 flowers are currently being harvested from an entire row.” The stark comparison to the typical productivity underscores the exceptional nature of this rainy dry season and its impact on their operations.
As Queensland’s growers navigate this period of climatic unpredictability, the resilience of farmers like the Piccolos is evident. Their adaptation strategies and perseverance amid such challenges are a testament to the dedication and unwavering commitment that characterize the agricultural industry.