R&D update: Smarter systems, healthier plants, stronger bottom lines
19 September 2025
19 September 2025
From improved pump performance to smarter irrigation scheduling, Australian nurseries are showing that small, targeted upgrades can lead to big savings – in water, energy, and costs.
Recent trials and grower case studies reveal impressive results:
- water savings of up to 2 megalitres (ML) per year
- 37% less water per hectare, even across large growing areas
- profit gains of up to $4,487 per ML of water applied’
- energy savings of nearly 12 MWh a year from pump upgrades
- cost reductions of more than $3,000 annually.
It's a simple formula – better systems, less waste and healthier plants.
How they’re doing it
Across the board, nurseries are investing in simple technologies and smarter practices that give them better control and faster feedback.
- Smart pumps, better pressure Upgrading to Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) pumps reduces energy use, wear and tear, and maintenance downtime — while improving irrigation accuracy.
- Data-led scheduling Smart controllers (like Netafim NMC Pro or Galcon units), flow meters, and pressure sensors give growers real-time insight into system performance and water use.
- Pulse irrigation & monitoring New techniques like pulse irrigation are reducing crop stress and improving uniformity — especially during heatwaves. Regular catch-can testing and monthly water logs help identify problems early.
Grower in focus
One Queenland nursery cut energy and heating costs by upgrading to a 5.5kW VFD pump, swapping out old lights for LEDs, and installing a solar hot water system in propagation areas.
The result?
- Lower bills
- Healthier root systems
- Fewer faults
- Better control – especially on hot days.
Want to boost your own efficiency?
- Check out the full nursery paper at May 2025 nursery paper: Improving water and energy efficiency in production nurseries
- Contact your local GIA Extension Officer for personalised support at: Contact us
