This project is part of the NSW regional growers’ program within the extension and communication project for the Australian cherry industry (CY20022).
This is an ongoing demonstration trial where information will be regularly updated on its progress on this webpage. Continue to visit this page to follow along on results and outcomes until the completion of this project in April 2028.
Introduction
Cover crops are emerging as a valuable tool for perennial horticultural industries to use to improve soil sustainability and long‑term productivity. Defined as close-growing crops that can protect and improve soil fertility, cover crops can add diversity to an orchard system, which is useful for promoting biodiversity, increasing nutrient turnover, and providing resilience to climate stressors such as intense heat and precipitation (Demir et al., 2019). Cover crops are also an effective way to increase organic matter and nutrients in the soil (Dad et al., 2021). By integrating selected plant species within the treeline, growers can improve soil structure, boost organic matter, support beneficial insects, and reduce erosion. This case study explores how cherry growers could add cover crops strategies to their orchard operations, the practical considerations involved, and the benefits or challenges experienced when utilising them.
Methods
To compare the effectiveness of utilising a cover crop within the treeline of a cherry orchard, NSW DPIRD have planted a small demonstration study site in Orange NSW. The cover crop was planted in Autumn 2026, and consists of the following species.
- Dichondra repens (Kidney weed figure 1)
- Trifolium subterraneum (Subterranean clover figure 2)
- Trifolium pratense (Red clover figure 3)
Figure 1. Kidney weed. Photo sourced from: Dawsons Garden World.
Figure 2. Subterranean clover. Photo sourced from: Sheldon Navie, Weeds of Australia
Figure 3. Red clover. Photo sourced from: Matt Taylor, Weeds of Australia.
Crops were hand sown, and incorporated using a hand held rake. Regular post-harvest irrigation was continued until leaf fall.
Data Collection
As part of the demonstration, NSW DPIRD will be collecting the following data to compare the effect cover crops on the soil, tree health and fruit quality.
- Soil nutrition analysis
- Soil physical properties (aggregate stability, water infiltration)
- Soil microbial diversity and respiration rate
- Ground cover composition
- Leaf nutrition analysis
- Fruit yield
- Tree growth
- Fruit quality (colour, size, brix, weight, firmness)
- Weed competition
- Interaction with fertiliser requirements
Results
Results for the first season of the trial will be available December 2026. You can keep up to date with the trial through this website page, the cherry industry newsletter or attending one of the NSW regional grower group meetings.
This project is part of the NSW regional growers’ program within the Extension and Communication Project for the Australian cherry industry (CY20022).
This is an ongoing demonstration trial where information will be regularly updated on its progress on this webpage. Continue to visit this page to follow along on results and outcomes until the completion of this project in April 2028.
Jessica Fearnley-Pattison, NSW DPIRD
