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20 May 2020 - AgriFutures Australia Projects
The AgriFutures Tea Tree Oil Program is currently has two exciting opportunities for researchers. AgriFutures is seeking services for two request for quotations More »»
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In response to the current coronavirus outbreak the ATTIA Board have approved the release of a Factsheet to help anyone interested to have access to research conducted on the antiviral properties of TTO. More »»
23 Apr 2020 - AgriFutures Tea Tree Oil Program Advisory Panel
AgriFutures Australia is seeking applications from suitably qualified individuals for Panel members and Panel Chair of the AgriFuture Tea Tree Oil Program Advisory Panel. More »»
01 Jan 2020 - Biosecurity Plan for the Tea Tree Industry
A Biosecurity Plan for the Tea Tree Industry has been prepared and released by Plant Health Australia. More »»
PrintHarvesting
M alternifolia is grown in plantations and the entire aerial growth of the plantation tree is mechanically harvested using modified forage harvesters which chop the leaf and twigs into a finely cut mass ready for steam distillation of the oil. Plantation trees are usually harvested every 12-18 months. The trees are robust and with good husbandry some plantations have been able to harvest leaf from their trees for up to 27 years. All plantation operators and harvesters take care to preserve the natural environmental balance to sustain and maintain future resources.
Images courtesy of Greg Baildon©
Many M alternifolia plantations are on the floodplains of the Northern Rivers area in NSW, Australia. During flood periods harvest can be delayed, though Melaleuca spp are well adapted to the area and can tolerate extendeed periods of inundation without being harmed.
The last of the floodwaters of May 2009 recede on a plantation near Bungawalbyn, NSW on the banks of the Richmond River.