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13 Feb 2023 - Three Tales from Tea Tree Farmers

The Farmer Magazine Article featuring three of our producers More »»


23 Nov 2021 - Scientists Confirm: Essential Oils Unrelated to Hormone Disruption

Epidemiological Research Debunks the Long-Held Myth That Lavender and Tea Tree Oils Cause Endocrine Disruption in Children. More »»


11 Jun 2021 - Plant Health Australia

Plant Health Australia (PHA) are seeking Non-Executive Directors applications. More »»


19 Mar 2021 - AgriFutures Tea Tree Oil Program Advisory Panel

AgriFutures Australia is seeking to broaden the skillset of its Tea Tree Oil Program Advisory Panel by appointing two new members. More »»


Harvesting

harvester2.jpg

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.

 harvester1.jpgA modified cotton picker harvesting Tea Tree for distillation

Images courtesy of Greg Baildon©

 Flooded TT.JPG

 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.

 

Page last updated: 21 Sep 2009