Chile’s Kiwi Committee launches online course to update orchard production practices

Chile’s Kiwi Committee has launched an online training programme aimed at helping growers and technical teams respond to new production challenges in kiwi orchards.

The "Course on Updated Production Management for Kiwi Orchards" will run from June 11 to August 6, with online sessions held from 09:00 to 11:30. The programme includes eight virtual classes and a final field activity for each cycle.

According to the committee, the course is designed to update technical criteria across the sector and support more consistent decision-making in orchard management. The initiative targets both established plantations and newer projects that are using different technologies and production methods.

Carlos Cruzat, president of the Kiwi Committee, said the aim is to complement the practical experience already held by field teams with updated, agreed technical information from growers and specialists. He noted that the course is intended to have a similar industry impact to earlier production and harvest manuals.

The programme is aimed at those directly involved in orchard operations, including growers, farm owners, administrators, orchard managers, suppliers, technical staff from input companies, and university professionals working with the crop. Cruzat said the quality of the final fruit is largely determined by decisions made in the orchard, making updated field knowledge essential.

The committee also expects the training to support the sector ahead of a possible increase in kiwi volumes. Its goal is for most member growers and producers to complete this type of technical update within the next five years.

Participants who complete the course will receive an official certification validating their updated skills in kiwi crop management.

source and photo: frutasdechile.cl