Unlocking Citrus Potential: The Game-Changing Benefits of CIVAC 19 Citrus Rootstock in Australia
Discover why CIVAC 19 Is the Ideal Rootstock for Growers Facing Disease and Climate Challenges
In a time of mounting challenges in the Australian citrus industry—ranging from water stress and soil degradation to looming disease threats—growers are increasingly turning to innovative solutions that deliver both resilience and productivity. One such innovation making waves is CIVAC 19, a next-generation citrus rootstock that offers a balanced combination of strength, adaptability, and performance. Developed with the future of commercial citrus production in mind, CIVAC 19 is fast becoming the smart choice for forward-thinking growers across the country.
One of the most notable features of CIVAC 19 is its strong tolerance to Huanglongbing (HLB), or citrus greening disease. While HLB has not yet been detected in Australia, its presence in other major citrus-producing countries has been devastating. CIVAC 19 offers growers a proactive measure—a built-in layer of biosecurity that could play a critical role should the disease arrive on Australian shores.
In addition to HLB, CIVAC 19 also exhibits resistance to Citrus Tristeza Virus (CTV), another serious citrus pathogen that has caused significant damage globally. This dual disease resistance makes CIVAC 19 a cornerstone for future-ready orchards aiming to minimise risk and maintain long-term productivity.
Trials and early commercial plantings have shown consistent, high yields across a variety of citrus types—including popular Australian choices like Valencia Oranges, Navel, and Imperial Mandarins. CIVAC 19 supports trees that are early-bearing and consistently productive, even under challenging conditions.
But it’s not just about quantity—the quality is there too. Fruit grown on CIVAC 19 rootstock tends to be uniform in size and colour, with excellent juice content, Brix (sugar level), and acidity balance. Whether you’re producing for the fresh market or processing, CIVAC 19 supports the high standards demanded by both domestic and international buyers.
“CIVAC 19 reduces the need for supplemental soil treatments and minimises input costs.”
Australia’s citrus-growing regions are known for their diversity in climate and soil. CIVAC 19 meets this challenge with moderate tolerance to drought and salinity, making it well-suited for areas where water availability or quality is an ongoing concern.
It also shows remarkable tolerance to calcareous soils and iron chlorosis, which are common issues in certain parts of Australia. By maintaining nutrient uptake and overall tree health in these less-than-ideal conditions, CIVAC 19 reduces the need for supplemental soil treatments and minimises input costs.
Furthermore, the rootstock demonstrates strong resistance to Phytophthora, a soil-borne disease that can severely impact citrus tree health. Its enhanced root activity means CIVAC 19 supports efficient water and nutrient uptake, even under irrigation without added iron. For growers, that translates into less intervention and more peace of mind.
One of the standout structural benefits of CIVAC 19 is its semi-dwarfing growth habit, producing a medium-sized tree that’s perfect for high-density planting systems. With orchard land and labour becoming more expensive, this trait is a major advantage. It allows for more trees per hectare, improved sunlight penetration, easier harvesting, and more efficient use of machinery—all of which help reduce costs and increase output.
Its well-developed, fibrous root system ensures strong anchoring and resilience during dry periods, while maintaining excellent compatibility with a wide range of commercial scions. Whether you’re planting a new block or reworking an older one, CIVAC 19 offers the flexibility needed to meet your production goals.
As sustainability becomes a larger focus in Australian agriculture, CIVAC 19 stands out as a rootstock that supports environmentally responsible practices. By reducing dependency on chemical treatments (thanks to its disease resistance) and supporting healthier trees with fewer inputs, CIVAC 19 aligns with both environmental and economic sustainability.
The rootstock’s efficiency and adaptability also make it a good fit for integrated pest and nutrient management programs, allowing growers to fine-tune their orchard care and reduce waste.
Whether you’re a large-scale commercial grower or managing a boutique orchard, CIVAC 19 provides a reliable, high-performing foundation for your citrus production.
