It has been another fruitful season of zucchini cultivation in Shepparton, Victoria, in collaboration with GV Roo’s Director, Dhami Singh, and his dedicated team. As mentioned in our previous Newsletter, this year Dhami has implemented a customised BioAg program with the active support of Dr Parmjit Singh Randhawa, BioAg’s Extension Area Manager.

The program includes:

• BioAg solid blend application based on soil test results (ameliorants, macro, and micronutrients).
• Tactical Biostimulant applications aimed at stress mitigation and enhancing nutrient use efficiency.

Dhami’s partnership with BioAg and his adherence to the program meant he hit the ground running early this season, and the zucchinis are off to a fantastic start.

Building on last season’s insights, the agronomic processes have been fine-tuned to enhance quality, flavour, and yield. One key improvement has been the use of occasional tissue testing to steer crop management, especially during periods of high market demand.

The plants are thriving, with vibrant green leaves and steady growth, supported by daily harvesting. Despite Shepparton’s challenging weather–excessively cold temperatures in early to mid-spring, a few days over 30°C, and significant rainfall in late November–the crops are performing well.

The BioAg Biostimulant Soil & Seed® (applied via drip irrigation), along with Balance & Grow® and Fruit & Balance® (foliar spray applications), have been instrumental in:

• enhancing plant metabolism;
• improving nutrient uptake; and
• strengthening stress tolerance, especially under cold, hot, and wet conditions.

While the final harvest for the first sown batch is still a few weeks away, early data suggests a strong yield and excellent quality, with a reduction in nitrogen use compared to last year’s crop.

Expanding Horizons

Dhami Singh and the GV Roo’s team are expanding the business by introducing sweet corn, eggplants, chillies, and capsicums to the portfolio, all under the tailored BioAg program.

This kind of diversification lays the foundation for a resilient and successful farm operation.