Lakeland, Qld

This demonstration site explores innovative approaches to improving soil health and sustainability in melon production. Traditional practices often rely on black polyethylene mulch with drip irrigation, with mulch sometimes reused for a second season. At this site team is testing alternatives that could enhance soil function while supporting productive melon crops.

Two key approaches are being investigated: cover crops and biodegradable mulches.

Cover crops have the potential to improve soil fertility, structure, and weed suppression, while also providing biomass that can be used as natural mulch or incorporated into the soil to increase organic matter.

Biodegradable mulches offer a potential replacement for conventional plastic, providing a more sustainable option that can work alongside cover crops.

The trials at this site are designed to provide practical, evidence-based insights for growers. Researchers are monitoring soil health, crop growth, mulch performance, and economic outcomes to understand how different approaches influence both productivity and long-term soil function.

By combining these strategies, the demo site highlights opportunities for growers to make informed decisions about sustainable soil management and mulch practices, supporting resilient and productive melon systems.

Trial objectives

The project has three key goals:

• Identify the cover crops best suited to improving soil health, yields, and melon quality.
• Evaluate biodegradable mulches for their performance in crop production and soil health.
• Provide growers with economic and practical insights on the influence of cover crops and soil health on their growing system, and on reducing or replacing conventional mulch.

Ultimately, the trial aims to help growers make informed, farm-specific decisions about adopting more sustainable practices.