Tropiculture is a 20-acre oasis of tropical plants, vegetables, and unique fruits, run by the passionate and ever-knowledgeable Chris Nathaniel. From its inception just after Cyclone Tracy to its current role as a key player in horticulture and tropical fruit development, Tropiculture has grown into a local gem. The farm’s combination of research, innovation, and dedication to sustainability has made it not only a production hub but also a gathering point for foodies, home gardeners, and commercial growers alike.
Chris Nathaniel always knew he had a green thumb, and though life took him in many directions—from radio announcing to running a bookshop—his desire to work with the land persisted. “I’ve always been a bit of a fruit tree hugger,” Chris laughs.
Since its founding, Tropiculture has developed an impressive reputation, supplying retailers across Western Australia, Queensland, and New South Wales. With a focus on research and development, Tropiculture is more than just a nursery—it's a hub of agricultural innovation.
Over the years, the farm has hosted some of Australia’s most beloved chefs, from Adam Liaw of Destination Flavour to Paul Mercurio and the teams from Gardening Australia and Landline. These visits have helped shine a spotlight on the incredible variety and quality of produce grown right here in the Northern Territory.
From tropical avocados that rival the famed Hass variety to 40 different types of citrus, the diversity of crops at Tropiculture is astounding. Chris boasts of his tropical avocados, which he believes have a superior flavour to the more common Hass variety. With seven varieties in production and even more waiting to be released, these avocados offer a unique opportunity for local growers and backyard enthusiasts alike. The goal now? To find a commercial grower who will bring these locally bred tropical avocados to a broader market.
Though Tropiculture is a production nursery focused on supplying commercial growers and retailers, it also serves the needs of locals looking to cultivate their own food. With over 400 varieties of plants, including 27 types of mangoes, 27 varieties of bananas, and countless citrus and leafy greens, it’s a haven for those eager to grow their own tropical bounty.
For anyone looking to start their own home garden, Tropiculture offers valuable advice and resources. Chris emphasises the importance of good soil and proper preparation: "Start with a raised bed and high-quality soil,” he advises. “It’s absolutely no good buying cheap soil—you need clean, virus-free, organic matter to give your plants the best start.”
Perhaps one of the most intriguing plants grown at Tropiculture is the peanut butter berry. As its name suggests, this small shrub produces red berries with a taste remarkably similar to peanut butter. It’s one of the many unique fruits that visitors to the farm can discover, and a testament to the diverse and exciting world of tropical agriculture.
For those inspired to start their own food gardens, Chris and the team at Tropiculture are always ready to help. Visitors can stop by the farm on Saturday mornings to chat with the knowledgeable staff, browse the nursery, and pick up plants that will thrive in the Territory’s climate. From bok choy and lettuce to more exotic offerings like kohlrabi, the farm provides a wide variety of options for local gardeners. Many of the plants can be grown year-round, ensuring a steady supply of fresh, homegrown produce.
Whether you’re an experienced grower or just starting out, Tropiculture offers an incredible array of plants, advice, and inspiration for anyone interested in tropical gardening.
Thank you to the NTG and Arts NT Mentoring Grants for supporting us to make this podcast a reality. And, a massive shout out to Brent Watkinson for mentoring me.
