What we did
We described the climate for the complete study area and highlighted the differences between the 2 focus areas (Figure 1) – Irwin (east of Dongara) and Dinner Hill (between Dandaragan and Badgingarra) – and assessed water and land factors that affect crop production:
- water quality
- water quantity
- land capability (soils)
- environmental impact.
We then assessed the potential suitability of a range of commercial horticultural crops for the Midlands' area conditions.
Figure 1 Map of the Midlands study area in this report
What we found
- The combination of climate and soils in the study area would suit a wide range of horticultural crops.
- High summer temperatures and a general lack of market advantage means that most vegetables should be produced during the cooler months of the year.
- Frost-sensitive crops should be confined to areas with a low frost risk, which are generally close to the coast.
- Strong wind is characteristic of the area, and protection against prevailing winds will be required for many crops.
For more information
Download 'Crop and climate suitability for the Midlands area of Western Australia', Resource management technical report 405 (PDF 4.6MB).
Acknowledgements
This work was funded by the Western Australian Government, through the Royalties For Regions Water For Food program.