How RLF AgTech Achieved a 38% Boost in Durian Yields with Minimal Cost Rise
RLF AgTech's second-year durian trial in Vietnam confirms a 38% yield increase and significant plant growth improvements, suggesting a potential 10-fold return on investment with minimal cost rise.
- 38% increase in durian fruit yield with RLF nutrition program
- 41% greater canopy diameter and 17% larger trunk diameter versus control
- Minimal 4% increase in input costs leading to potential 10x ROI
- Consistent multi-year agronomic improvements reinforce product efficacy
- Australian trial results nearing completion to support domestic expansion
Strong Agronomic Gains in Vietnam
RLF AgTech Ltd has released compelling results from its second-year durian trial program in Vietnam, demonstrating a 38% increase in fruit yield compared to traditional farming practices. The trial, which compared RLF’s advanced crop nutrition products against conventional fertilisers, also recorded a 41% increase in canopy diameter and a 17% increase in trunk diameter over 12 months. These improvements indicate healthier, more vigorous trees capable of producing larger and heavier fruit.
The trial involved durian trees aged between three and six years, treated with a tailored nutrient application schedule across key growth stages including leaf flushing, flowering, and fruiting. The RLF program utilised a suite of proprietary products such as RLF X1 Foliar and RLF PowerPK42, designed to enhance nutrient uptake and plant development.
Economic Upside with Minimal Cost Increase
Despite the significant agronomic benefits, the program only increased input costs by 4%, a marginal $75 per hectare compared to the control group. This small additional investment translated into an extra 460 kilograms of durian fruit per hectare, which, at an average sale price of approximately $2 per kilogram, yielded an estimated $778 in additional revenue. This equates to a potential 10-times return on investment, a highly attractive proposition for growers considering adoption of the RLF nutrition program.
RLF’s Acting Managing Director, Gavin Ball, highlighted the importance of these consistent multi-year results, stating that they validate the science behind their products and bolster confidence in expanding their footprint not only in Vietnam but across other Asian markets and Australia.
Looking Ahead, Australian Trials and Regional Expansion
While the Vietnam trial results are promising, RLF is also in the final stages of completing substantial Australian-based trials for the 2025 season. These results are eagerly awaited as they will provide further evidence of the program’s efficacy in different climatic and soil conditions, potentially unlocking new opportunities within Australia’s horticultural sector.
The company’s broader strategy aligns with sustainable agriculture trends, aiming to improve fertiliser efficiency and soil health through science-led formulations. The success of the durian program could serve as a blueprint for other crops, reinforcing RLF’s position as a leader in advanced crop nutrition solutions.
Bottom Line?
RLF’s durian trial success in Vietnam sets the stage for broader regional growth and a pivotal Australian market debut.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the Australian trial results mirror the strong yield improvements seen in Vietnam?
- How quickly can RLF scale production and distribution to meet potential demand in Asia?
- What are the risks or barriers to adoption among traditional durian growers in the region?
