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Rural Industries
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|| Introduction || Project listing|| Project Summaries ||
Wildflowers are now cultivated in all states, but Western Australia still accounts for about half of Australia's annual wildflower production of around $30 million (farmgate).
The relative importance of bushpicked flowers is declining, even in WA, and now represents only about 16 per cent of the total value of wildflower production. In 1995-96, exports of wildflowers and native plants amounted to about $30 million.
The key commercial wildflowers are Geraldton wax, kangaroo paw, Stirlingia, Thryptomene, and species of Banksia, Leucadendron and Protea. The major markets are Japan, the USA, Germany and the Netherlands.
A Five-year R&D Plan for wildflowers and native plants is now in place following discussion with the industry and the research community in six states.
Research Highlights for 1996-97:
PREVENTING POSTHARVEST FLOWER DROP IN GERALDTON WAXFLOWER
Objective
· To investigate the cause of postharvest flower drop in Geraldton waxflower and its control through improved management (eg. chemical treatments) and handling (eg. packaging) practices.
Background
Postharvest flower drop is a major problem affecting Geraldton waxflower, which is Australia's most economically significant native cut flower crop grown for export. On arrival at overseas destinations, consignments are frequently found to have moderate to severe levels of flower drop. Anti-ethylene treatments such as silver thiosulphate (STS) pulsing and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) dips do not provide adequate control, as these treatments target the symptom of the disorder rather than the cause.
Preliminary studies led to development of the hypothesis that latent infection by Botrytis cinerea leads to production of endogenous ethylene when the fungus is released from quiescence. In turn, this ethylene causes the shedding of seemingly healthy flowers. That is, flower drop occurs before visible symptoms of pathogen invasion are evident.
Research
Three areas of research were initiated in the search for effective control measures for fungal pathogens and flower abscission: the use of alternative and novel fungicides; the use of calcium treatments to suppress fungal development; and the manipulation of the environment inside flower packages in order to limit fungal development and growth during handling and transport.
Outcomes
Increased inoculum levels were shown to exacerbate the problem of postharvest flower drop in Geraldton waxflower. Alternative fungicides, to the commonly used Benlate and Rovral products including Euraren and Bravo were effective in reducing pathogen invasion of waxflower. Scala, a new fungicide, also showed promise for controlling postharvest pathogens of waxflower. Maintaining temperatures at 5 degrees C or less during the handling and transport of waxflower effectively controlled disease development and flower drop.
While postharvest pulsing of waxflower with STS alleviated the problem of flower drop by inhibiting ethylene action, packing ethylene scrubbers with flowers did not reduce flower drop. Package design with extra ventilation holes strategically located near the flower heads reduced both relative humidity and ethylene levels, and lowered disease severity and associated flower drop.
Pre- and postharvest applications of calcium did not reduce pathogen-induced flower drop in waxflower, a result contrary to that obtained with roses.
Implications
Strict pre- and postharvest hygiene measures aimed at reducing the level of fungal inoculum (especially B. cinerea) are required on the farm. Alternation of the fungicides used for pre-harvest applications is recommended, and Rovral should be reserved exclusively for use in the packing shed. Effective low temperature control and cold chain maintenance are necessary to reduce postharvest disease development. An integrated strategy of careful temperature management combined with active relative humidity control (<100%) and protection against ethylene is required to eliminate the risk of postharvest flower drop.
Further research in collaboration with a package manufacturer aims to develop a commercial package for export flowers in which the internal relative humidity and ethylene levels (inside the package) are reduced to discourage disease development and associated flower drop in waxflower.
RIRDC Project No: CSH-42A
RESEARCHER: Dr Daryl Joyce
ORGANISATION: Department of Plant Production, The University of Queensland
Gatton College LAWES QLD 4345
PHONE: 07 5460 1236 FAX: 07 5460 1455
SELECTING BANKSIA CULTIVARS FOR FLORICULTURE
Objectives
· To select superior genotypes.
· To refine vegetative propagation methods.
· To undertake screening and second stage testing.
· To register new cultivars.
Background
At present approximately 30% of banksias sold as cut flowers are bush picked. This is undesirable for the industry as the quality is generally low, and this contributes to a poor reputation overseas. Moreover, there is increasing pressure to conserve natural habitats. The cut flower industry depends upon productivity, novelty and flexibility to win and maintain markets. The first producer to market a new cultivar will have these advantages.
Research
Selection procedures were based on statistical methods, and criteria for selection included bloom colour, quality, size and symmetry; stem length, straightness and thickness; and leaf shape and conformation. A major aim of the selection program was to increase the period of bloom production of Banksia coccinea, b. menziesii, b. hookeriana and B. prionotes. Experiments were set up to investigate methods of vegetable propagation for each promising selection using hormone treatment, mist propagation and bottom heat. New cultivars were registered for Plant Breeders Rights, sub-licensed to a nursery for multiplication and sale to producers.
Outcomes
The Banksia selection program has resulted in the registration of the first three cultivars for cut flower production. Waite Orange is a hybrid banksia with a flowering time intermediate between that of B. hookeriana and B. prionotes. Waite Crimson is a mid season dark red B. coccinea bloom, and Waite Flame is an early season orange-red B.coccinea. Cuttings of all have a high rooting percentage of 70-80%.
Further advanced stage selections have been identified for B.coccinea with bloom colours including scarlet and pink, and with a range of bloom size. Small blooms may be cheaper to export and so have a profit advantage. Rooting percentage of cuttings of these selections varies from 5-60%, and more research is needed to develop optimum propagation conditions.
Advance stage selections with high yield and quality, and bloom colour stability have been identified for B. menziesii. The colours of the selections are stunning, and include yellow, apricot, pink, wine and bronze. The maximum rooting percentage so far achieved for these selections is 20% and further research is needed to improve the strike rate.
Advance stage selections with high yield and quality have been identified for B. prionotes. Strike rates of up to 70% have been achieved.
Implications
The cut flower industry in Australia could experience up to fivefold increases in productivity over a 20 year period as a direct result of the development of improved cultivars. This figure is based on current selection data which indicate high plant to plant variability in bloom number and quality. The majority of plants in commercial plantations are producing sub-optimally, thus reducing the yield to the grower in relation to inputs. Advantages will include increased productivity due to higher yield, quality and reliability of the product, particularly for the export market. A reduction in the number of discarded or second rate blooms, and an increase in desirability to the consumer of improved cultivars all contribute to the benefits.
The propagation and marketing rights for all three cultivars Waite Orange, Waite Crimson and Waite Flame have been sublicenced to Proteaflora Pty. Ltd. in Victoria.
RIRDC Project No: UA-26A
RESEARCHER: Professor M. Sedgley
ORGANISATION: The University of Adelaide Department of Horticulture, Viticulture
and Oenology Waite Agricultural Research Institute GLEN OSMOND SA 5064
PHONE: 08 8303 7248 FAX: 08 8303 7116
GERMANY - A MAJOR EXPORT MARKET FOR THE AUSTRALIAN WILDFLOWER BANKSIA
Objective
· To improve the profitability and international competitiveness of the Australian floriculture industry's trade with Germany.
Research
This was achieved by a visit to Germany to develop an in depth understanding of German industry infrastructure, current changes and future directions in consumer demands.
Using a carefully designed questionnaire, some problems were identified which the industry must address if these benefits are to be realised. Eight questions were asked regarding the perception of quality of the product. These were: 1. uniformity of grading 2. stem number per bunch 3. durability/freshness 4. stem to head ratio 5. unblemished flowers and leaves 6. pest and disease free 7. optimal stage of flowering 8. general appearance
Outcomes
The study found that there was interest and enthusiasm for Australian banksias in the German market, and that our industry can successfully supply the market with increased volume. One of the major uses of banksias in Germany is one which hardly exists in Australia. It is the use of banksias as grave decorations in wreaths and other arrangements. This is an important part of the German industry, and banksias are favoured because of their long shelf life and their complementary appearance in combination with conifer foliage and cones.
The responses from the questionnaire indicated that only durability/freshness was acceptable. In all other parameters the product was perceived as deficient. Items 1, 5, 6 and 7 are all aspects which can be addressed immediately by the industry, and this must be done if we are to maintain and develop this important market. Items 1, 4 and 8 are factors which must be addressed via selection and breeding, and with the development of clonal plantings to reduce variability.
It was also identified via the questionnaire that insufficient information is provided with the blooms. Material sought by German importers included information on care and storage, on complementary material, times of availability, assortment available and consumer preferences. This is a matter which must be addressed immediately by the industry.
Implications
There is ample opportunity for increased share of the German market for banksias. If this is to be achieved, then the industry must address the concerns identified by this survey.
RIRDC Project No: UA-33A
RESEARCHERS: Professor M. Sedgley, Ms. Raelene Mibus, Dr. Larry Lockshin
ORGANISATION: The University of Adelaide Department of Horticulture, Viticulture
and Oenology Waite Agricultural Research Institute The University of Adelaide
GLEN OSMOND SA 5064
PHONE: 08 8303 7248 FAX: 08 8303 7116
EFFECT OF PHENOTYPE AND GENOTYPE ON THE POSTHARVEST QUALITY OF NATIVE AUSTRALIAN CUT FLOWERS
Objective
· To investigate the effect of phenotype and genotype on the postharvest quality of native Australian cut flowers, concentrating on Chamelaucium.
Background
In the mid to late 80s Australian cut flowers had a general reputation of poor quality on overseas markets. This project was set up to bridge the gap between the agronomy and its effect on postharvest performance.
Research
Eight species of Chamelaucium,and thirteen cultivars of C. uncinatum and C. floriferum, were grown in a common garden experiment. These plants were evaluated for vaselife both fresh and after 14 days cold storage.
Rooted cuttings from a single plant of C. uncinatum were grown in five levels of a complete fertiliser, five levels of nitrogen, four levels of irrigation, and four environments.
Outcomes
Genotype accounted for c. 60% of the variation of fresh vaselife. The mean values for leaf and flower vaselife of the genus were 13.6 and 12.9 days respectively and for C. uncinatum cultivars were 12 and 10.6 days. Leaf vaselife was more dependent on preharvest conditions than was flower vaselife. Storing cut stems for 14 days at 0 degrees C was generally detrimental, reducing post storage vaselife by 40%. The effect of storage was genotype dependant and the responses of leaves and flowers were independent.
Preharvest water stress reduced the number of flower buds initiated and stem length, but increased substantially both flower and leaf vaselife. Reducing the amount of irrigation water to 60% of evapotranspiration for the six to seven weeks prior to harvest, enhanced vaselife, reduced vegetative on-growth and had little impact on stem length or the number of flowers open.
The level of nitrogen strongly influenced the number of flowering stems, number of flowering stems, number of flowers, and to a lesser extent stem length. Flower and leaf vaselife increased for N levels up to 15g nitrogen per two year old plant.
The growing environment also significantly affected plant form, flower and leaf vaselife, maintenance of fresh mass and vase solution uptake. The longest flower vaselife, 16.5 days, was recorded by stems grown in the wind protected area. The largest number of stems were produced in the high light environments.
Wilting, postharvest, for up to 24 hours, contributed only 15% to the variation for flower vaselife and 21% of leaf vaselife. Postharvest dehydration for up to 24 hours did not adversely affect the vaselife of C. uncinatum 'Purple Pride'.
RIRDC Project No: UMU-4A/UWA-15A
RESEARCHERS: Prof. J. Considine (Project Leader), Mrs L. E. q Manning ORGANISATION: University of Western Australia School of Agriculture NEDLANDS WA 6009 PHONE: 08 9380 1782 FAX: 08 9380 1108
PUBLICATIONS: Manning, L E. (1995), 'Genetic and environmental influences on the vaselife of Chamelaucium spp' Unpublished Msc (Horticulture) thesis. University of Western Australia (submitted).
MANAGING POSTHARVEST TEMPERATURE IN CUTFLOWERS
Objectives
· To define the extent, commercial significance, and implications
of temperature control problems during postharvest handling and transport
of Australian cutflower exports.
· To provide information on commercial approaches to postharvest
temperature control practised by the world cutflower trade.
· To assess the effectiveness of existing, and the opportunities
for improved, commercial temperature management as practised by the Australian
cutflower industry.
· To report on cutflower temperature management research overseas,
and on potential collaborative research and development links.
Background
Australia has a rich and unique native flora, and many species are in demand overseas as cutflowers. However, largely due to inconsistent postharvest temperature management, consumers overseas are often disappointed with the quality of Australian floriculture products.
Research
Published temperature management literature was collated, Australian exporters were surveyed and/or interviewed, and selected research and industry personnel in The Netherlands, Israel and California were visited and interviewed.
Outcomes
Although the principles of good temperature management systems are well established, they are not being applied for Australian floriculture products. For example, refrigerated road transport is readily available in Australia, but is not always utilised. Lack of coolstorage immediately before air shipment, during air transport and immediately after air shipment is another problem area. Deficiencies in coolstorage and refrigerated transport of Australian products after import also exist.
The problem of poor temperature management in the receiving country is seemingly one that is partly lack of will and/or interest, since Australian flowers are mostly exported to economically developed countries. Scheduling for rapid handling and transport is an integral part of good temperature management, and exporters generally thrive to move product as rapidly as possible.
Good temperature management involves considerable expense (e.g farm coolrooms, refrigerated transport). Nevertheless, the lesson from overseas (e.g The Netherlands) is that this commitment should be made if Australia is to maintain and expand cutflower exports. Currently, the data base for Australian flowers describing relationships between temperature and time and quality is essentially non-existent. Similarly, thorough documentation of temperature profiles associated with exporting to various markets or in various seasons has never been undertaken. Without such information, informed cost-benefit analysis cannot be carried out.
Implications
The Australian industry is advised to facilitate: · research and development towards establishing information/data bases upon which sound and objective financial decisions relating to temperature management protocols might be based; · development of novel temperature management protocols likely to afford Australia a competitive advantage in the marketplace; and · both extension of information on the principles of temperature management and education on the unique postharvest characteristics of Australian cut flowers to all personnel, both in Australia and overseas, who are involved in the postharvest handling chain. Researchers in The Netherlands, Israel and California have expressed a genuine willingness to collaborate where practical and as appropriate.
RIRDC Project No: Consultancy Project
RESEARCHER: Daryl Joyce (formerly with CSIRO Division of Horticulture) ORGANISATION: Department of Plant Production The University of Queensland LAWES QLD 4343 PHONE: 07 5460 1236 FAX: 07 5460 1455
DEVELOPING A QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM FOR THE PRODUCTION OF NATIVE FLORA
Objectives
· To develop, document and implement a Quality Assurance System which complies with AS/NZ 9002: 1994 for an existing producer of native flora. · To develop a generic Quality Assurance Manual that is transferable to other native flora producers.
Background
If Australian native flower growers are to maximise the export and domestic market they need to improve their product quality. Most native flora producers believe that they can improve their product quality by increasing inspection.
However, final inspection does not prevent inferior product being produced in the first place. Quality needs to be controlled at the source, thus preventing the waste of time, energy, resources and money producing faulty product. A Quality Assurance System incorporates the total organisation and takes in all characteristics of the business and production process from order to delivery. A Quality Assurance System will enable growers to efficiently produce a quality product and market it with confidence.
Research
A number of meetings were held with a native flower producer in the Grampians, Victoria. This enabled the project leader to become familiar with the operation and develop a flow chart for the farm. Literature was reviewed on Quality Assurance Systems in similar operations, liaison undertaken with both the Australian Standards Association and Lloyd's Register Quality Assurance Ltd.
Outcomes
The implementation of a Quality Assurance System will:
· improve efficiency and effectiveness of the operation;
· enable greater communication between owners, staff, suppliers
and customers;
· improve customer satisfaction;
· reduce re-work and waste;
· develop a quality aware team;
· produce a quality end product;
· give the business a marketing advantage; and
· increase business profitability.
Implications
The lack of quality systems for the Australian native flower industry is often cited by industry leaders as a problem impacting on the competitiveness in the international marketplace. The quality of native flora can be improved by implementing a Quality Assurance System. The Model Manual produced is applicable to all native flower growing operations.
RIRDC Project No: MEN-1A
RESEARCHER: Mr Chris Mennie
ORGANISATION: RMB 1242F MARYBOROUGH VIC 3465
PHONE: 03 5461 4127 FAX: 03 5461 4127
WATER REQUIREMENTS AND GROWTH OF GERALDTON WAX IN AN ARID ZONE ENVIRONMENT
Objectives
· To describe the morphological adaptive changes that occur in response to water deficit. · To compare the structure of the plant with other plants from Mediterranean and other climatic zones. · To measure whole plant use under field conditions using the non-destructive heat balance method for determining stem water use. · To determine optimum irrigation strategies for field and containerised plants.
Background
Geraldton wax is the most important flower grown for export from Australia. At the time this work began there were no guidelines for irrigating the crop and the general view was that irrigation was only needed for establishment.
Research
Basic studies revealed that the wax flower plant, while able to survive deep levels of water deficit for short periods was not as well adapted to water deficits as many other plants that originate in arid or Mediterranean climates. It has a relatively poorly developed stomatal control and transpires freely. The stems have a high conductivity that is consistent with a high water use.
Adaptation to water deficits is firstly by accumulation of solutes (sugars and amino acids) but to a low concentration compared to many other drought adapted plants; secondly by a high elastic modulus of stems which resists a large reduction in water content; and thirdly by progressive reduction of growth and stem elongation, shedding of leaves and ultimately of branches. These adaptations are not consistent with the maintenance of commercial productivity and quality.
In pots studies, cv. Alba showed a doubling of growth and productivity as water availability was raised from 25% of pan evaporation to 75% wile cv. Purple Pride showed a three-fold increase. In the field, vigorous cv. Purple Pride showed a four-fold increase in flower number as water availability was raised from 25% to 75%, despite the fact that the plants were obtaining significant volumes of water from the free aquifer, as much as 12 L of water per day originated at depth in this situation. Daily water use was a high as 20 L per day for 4 year old plants. Thus we recommend a crop factor of 75% for Geraldton wax growing under an arid zone, Mediterranean climate.
Implications
The implications of this study are that consideration will need to be given to provide adequate water for native plants such as Geraldton wax to ensure maximum productivity and as a "rule of thumb" that 75% of the daily evapotranspiration will provide an initial guide under Mediterranean climatic conditions. Irrigation requirements may need to be re-evaluated under other climatic zones. It is also important to distinguish between plant capacity to survive under arid conditions and minimum water available to maximise productivity. Native plants should be treated in the same manner as exotic plants when examining the requirements for water.
RIRDC Project No: UMU-12A
RESEARCHER: J A Considine and K Akilan
ORGANISATION: Plant Science The University of Western Australia NEDLANDS
WA 6907
PHONE: 09 380 1782 FAX: 09 380 1108 EMAIL: consid@cyllene.uwa.edu.au
MANAGEMENT OF BUSH STANDS FOR CUTFLOWER AND FOLIAGE PRODUCTION
Objective
· To improve the production and export quality of selected cutflower and foliage plants harvested from natural bush areas in Western Australia through the development of suitable management techniques.
Background
Native wildflowers account for over 90% of flower and foliage exports from Western Australia, and in 1992 approximately 40% of that came from natural bush stands on public (65%) and private (35%) land. Due to disease and conservation concerns, restrictions are increasing on the range and volume of product that can be sourced from public land. As many of these species cannot be cultivated because of propagation or economic issues, there is increasing interest in accessing material of selected species from private land. However, there is no information on suitable management techniques to provide for sustainable and economic production from natural bush stands on private land.
Research
The effect of various management techniques including pruning, fertilising and slashing was examined on four species endemic to the south west area of Western Australia, namely Banksia baxterii, Beaufortia sparsa, Agonis sp. (course tea tree) and Leptocarpus scariosus.
Outcomes
Pruning established B. baxterii plants growing in natural bush can increase marketable flower yield. The severity of pruning is critical, especially in periods of drought stress on unirrigated plants. Pruning down to a stem diameter of 10 to 12mm appears optimal. Unirrigated B. baxterii plants transplanted and grown in cleared land will grow up to 35 times faster than plants of the same age growing in adjacent natural bush. In addition, commercial flower production occurs up to 3 year earlier on plants growing on cleared land.
Slashing and fertilising B. sparsa and Agonis sp. will improve flower production in managed bush areas. Various genotypes were selected, including natural Agonis sp. hybrids which extend flowering periods, and in the case of B. sparsa, provide a range of flower colours not widely represented in the natural bush.
None of the management practises examined improved the yield or quality of L. scariosus. Further work needs to be done, but preliminary indications are that continuous harvesting of this species from natural bush is not sustainable.
Implications
· For B. baxterii, it is recommended that while bush management
is viable on older bushes, establishing young plants on cleared land will
give better and earlier production.
· Slashing and fertilising B. sparsa and Agonsis sp. will improve
flower yield.
· Further work needs to be done on L. scariosus to bring it into
cultivation.
RIRDC Project No: DAW-40A
RESEARCHERS: A M Fuss & AL Morgan (1993-94) CJ Robinson & MG Webb (1995-96) ORGANISATION: Agriculture Western Australia 444 Albany Highway ALBANY WA 6330 PHONE: 098 928 444 FAX: 098 412 707
PUBLICATIONS: Morgan, AL. (1994). Bush management project. The Floriculture Industry Newsletter 31:8-9. Agriculture Western Australia. Robinson, CJ. (1995). Know your tea tree. The Floriculture Industry Newsletter 35: 14-16. Agriculture Western Australia. Webb, MG. Robinson, CJ. Morgan, AL. Fuss, AF. and Smith, RS. (1996). Some management strategies for growing Banksia baxterii. IV International Workshop for Australian Native Plants. Proceedings pp. 259-262. University of Western Australia.
NUTRITION OF PROTEACEAE USED IN CUT FLOWER PRODUCTION
Objectives
· To establish leaf nutrient standards for management of fertilisation of Proteaceae using foliar analysis. · To understand the physiological basis for the nutrient requirements of Proteaceae, particularly phosphorus. · To develop physiologically-based diagnostic tools which are applicable to all Australian native species. · To produce a booklet for growers on nutrient standards and diagnostic tests for management of fertilisation.
Background
Export earnings from native cut flowers and foliage in Australia were estimated to be worth $50 million for the 1990-91 financial year. Flowers of the Proteaceae constitute a considerable proportion of the market, both locally and overseas. The nutritional requirements of Australian and South African natives used in cut flower production are very poorly understood and fertiliser management is not scientifically based. The development of leaf nutrient standards and rates of NPK fertiliser applications for optimum growth of Proteaceous species are important in achieving better quality and maximum production.
Research
The research consisted of a greenhouse study in which eleven Proteaceous species were grown at eight levels of controlled release NPK fertiliser over a period of six months. Data collected on shoot dry weights and tissue nutrient contents were used to determine the fertiliser rates needed for optimum growth under these conditions.
Outcomes
The research showed that Proteaceous species have both a lower requirement for and lower tolerance to fertiliser compared with plant species from other families. However, all eleven species grew better with applied fertiliser than without fertiliser, and large differences were found in responsiveness and sensitivity even within the same genera.
Only three species, Adenanthos sericeus, Banksia hookeriana and Protea cv. Masquerade did not exhibit symptoms of nutrient toxicity or reduced growth at the recommended fertiliser rate for P sensitive species (5 kg/m3). A. sericeus was unaffected at rates more than three times the recommendation. The range of leaf P concentration (0.09-0.2%), for all species at optimum growth was below the adequate range for most non Proteaceous ornamentals. This was also the case for nitrogen and potassium. Target leaf N, P and K concentrations varied between species.
Standards for management of fertilisation of Proteaceae using foliar analysis were established. Leaf nutrient standards for optimum growth of 11 Proteaceous species were determined for 14 nutrients. Symptoms of toxicity were identified and with the nutrient standards, were included in the Grower's guide to Proteaceous species. Additionally the findings from this research were presented at the IV National Workshop for Australian Native Flowers, 28-30 September 1996, at the University of Western Australia, Perth.
Implications
Differences in the responsiveness and tolerance to fertiliser found between species, in this study, emphasise the importance of tailoring fertiliser programs for each species to ensure maximum production. Relationships between leaf nutrient concentrations and responses to fertiliser clearly demonstrate the value of leaf analysis as a tool in managing the nutrition of these plants. Specific knowledge found on optimal nutrition will aid the consistent production of quality plants and cut flowers.
RIRDC Project No: UWS-1A
RESEARCHER: Dr Anthony M Haigh
ORGANISATION: School of Horticulture University of Western Sydney, Hawkesbury
Locked Bag 1 RICHMOND NSW 2753
PHONE: 045 70 1254 FAX: 045 701 314
PRODUCTION, MANAGEMENT AND HANDLING OF QUALITY NEW NATIVE CUTFLOWERS FOR EXPORT
Objectives
· To increase the diversity of cutflower exports to allow
the continued expansion of the native Australian cutflower industry.
· To compile agronomic and economic information to determine those
species of native Australian wildflowers with potential for cultivation.
· To develop methods of propagation and plant establishment for
those species.
· To develop ways to optimising saleable stem production through
irrigation, nutrition and pruning.
· To develop protocols for maintaining postharvest stem quality.
· To test market cultivated product and provide data on the marketability
of these species.
· To encourage and promote the increased plantings of new cutflower
and foliage species showing positive response to cultivation through publications
and grower magazines and field day demonstrations.
Background
The Australian cut flower industry has gone through a period of rapid growth over the past 10 years. This was based mainly on cultivation of Chamelaucium, Banksia and Anigozanthos. New flowers are urgently needed which provide a choice of flower over an extended season to continue to stimulate market interest in Australian cut flowers.
Following discussions with the industry, over 200 native species with export potential were identified. Some of these have been already been marketed (from bush picked material) to a greater or lesser extent and are considered to be worthy of more attention.
With access to areas of crown land for picking wildflowers diminishing there is an urgent need for developing methods to bring many of these species into cultivation. Cultivation offers the advantage of maximising production, guaranteeing supply of flowers or foliage, and ensuring postharvest flower quality during export.
Research
Five species were chosen namely: Adenanthos cuneatus (native temp or flame bush), Conospermum eatoniae (blue smoke bush), Hypocalymma robustum (Swan River myrtle), Pimelea physodes (Qualup bell), Podocarpus drouynianus (emu bush). The majority of these flowers are presently bush picked and therefore, stem production and flower quality is far from optimum.
The research approach consisted of selecting superior plant types; developing method of propagation and establishment; optimising stem production and quality through irrigation, nutrition and pruning; and developing suitable methods of postharvest handling for each species.
Outcomes
Of the wildflowers tested blue smokebush responded best to cultivation and stem production was optimised planting in bed with a density of 4 plants/m2. Blue smokebush were propagated by tissue culture methods and were best established in spring to summer. Stems growth was rapid over summer /autumn with flowering and production of marketable stems in their first year. Plants responded to pruning quadrupling stem numbers in subsequent seasons. Blue smokebush was sensitive to high fertiliser application. Stems needed to be kept in water after picking and vase life was at least 12 days. Preliminary indications are there is good market response to blue smokebush in Australia and Japan.
Qualup bell, which displayed a spectacular burgundy/yellow bell flower, was difficult to propagate with strike rates highest in autumn. It was floriferous in cultivation although stem length was short (i.e. less than 50 cm) and had 12 days vase life.
Swan River myrtle propagated easily and stem growth was slower than other flowers trialed and required at least 3 years to reach 60-65 cm. This flower responded to high fertiliser application. Vase life was short (5 days) and careful handling was needed to prolong vase life, picking while some flowers were in bud were found to prolong vase life.
Native temp was found to be high water user and maintained their brilliant leaf colouration under cultivation and had a use as afresh cut foliage having a vase life of 14 days.
Emu grass grew extremely slowly and was considered a longer term (estimated as 5-10 years) option as a foliage crop. It was more suited to cooler climates giving a deeper greener foliage colour in part shade than in full sun.
Implications
This study demonstrated that it is possible to successfully cultivate new wildflowers and that their response depended on the climatic and cultural conditions of the site selected.
It is also possible to modify the growing environment by such methods as using shade covers to reduce light and temperature, soil mulch to moderate soil temperature and soil moisture levels, and increased frequency of water application to maintain soil water to the plant thus allowing these wildflowers to grow in an 'alien' environment.
There was a definite advantage in growing wildflowers in several locations to spread flowering times and extend the picking season. For example the length of picking season of Qualup bell could almost be doubled by growing plants at different latitudes.
RIRDC Project No: DAW-51A
RESEARCHERS: Dr. K.A. Seaton, Mr M G.Webb
ORGANISATION: Agriculture Western Australia Horticultural Science Plant
Research and Development Services, Baron Hay Court, SOUTH PERTH WA 6151
PHONE: 08 93683244 FAX: 08 93672625
PUBLICATIONS: Seaton K. A. (1996) Conospermum in the search for the new wildflower. Aust. Hort. June-July 1996. 4(6): 47-48. Seaton K. A., and Webb, M. G. (1996). Development of conospermum for cut flower markets. In 'IV National Workshop for Australian Native Flowers'. Perth, 28-30 September 1996. (Ed. P. Watkins) (The University of Western Australia). p191-196.
PRODUCTION OF QUALITY PHOTOGRAPHS OF AUSTRALIAN FLOWERS & FOLIAGES
Objective
· To secure a top quality photographic library of Australian flowers and foliages. Photographs to be suitable for national and international display and for use by the Australian flower industry for such purposes as marketing, quality management and training.
Background
With the advent of increased floricultural exports from Australia, it became apparent that industry did not have a collection of quality photographs to effectively promote Australian flora in the international marketplace.
Research
Over a two year period, a collection of quality photographs of Australian flora suitable for export was compiled including the photographs suitable for Standards Australia future publications. The majority of native flowers, foliages and African proteaceae were supplied from throughout Australia by members of the Flower Export Council of Australia Inc. (FECA). Other products were sourced in season from Flemington Markets in Sydney and from the Australian National Botanical Gardens in Canberra.
Photographs were taken in studio conditions in Sydney (at the premises of The Australian Flower Company), Canberra (Australian National Botanic Gardens) and Perth (FECA office). In most cases three photographs were taken for each species, including photographs of the product as a bunch, a single stem and close up of the flower head.
Duplicates of each shot were made for the establishment of a slide library for industry. Over 200 taxa were photographed. All photographs were shot with a standard matt black background. Overall the quality of the photographs was very good, Iain Dawson is to be commended for his photographic expertise during the project.
Outcomes
Photographs from the project have been used in the production of the 'Australian Flowers' booklet, by RIRDC for their reports, by researchers for use at conferences and, by individual businesses and exporters to promote their products. It is planned to use the photographs in the future production of an Australian Export Poster, and a promotional CD ROM featuring Australian Floral Design using Australian flora.
The project photographs are now stored in plastic sleeves and ring back folders in the FECA office in Perth. Slide photograph copies are available for a fee from the photographic library upon request.
RIRDC Project No: FEC-1A
RESEARCHER: Mr Kim James
ORGANISATION: The Flower Export Council of Australia Inc. PO Box 137 NEDLANDS
W.A. 6009
PHONE: 08 9324 1778 FAX: 08 9324 1779
NATIONAL WORKSHOP FOR AUSTRALIAN NATIVE FLOWERS
Objectives
· To hold a national workshop for Australian native flowers
in Perth to coincide with the International Society for Horticultural Science
New Floriculture Crops Symposium.
· To encourage interaction between growers and researchers both
nationally and internationally.
Background
The Western Australian Wildflower Producers Association had planned to organise a national workshop on Australian native flowers in Perth during 1997. With the announcement that an ISHS Symposium on Floriculture was to be held in October 1996, it was considered opportune to hold the workshop immediately prior to the Symposium. This would allow international participants in the Symposium to attend the workshop and to contribute papers. Support by way of a cash advance was sought from RIRDC to finance start-up costs prior to positive cash flow from registrations.
Outcomes
· The workshop was held at the University of Western Australia, 29-30 September 1996, followed by a one day tour of four commercial producers/nurseries. A poster and trade display was available throughout. · The workshop was organised by a committee comprising Philip Watkins (Sunglow Flowers Pty Ltd) as Chair and Nine Foulkes-Taylor (Plantation Wildflowers), Julie Plummer (University of Western Australia) and Chris Newell (WA Wildflower Producers Association). The Secretariat was provided by Kaye Rebola of UWA Extension Conference Management. · 52 oral papers and 7 poster page book. Copies may be purchased from WA Wildflower Producers Association · 160 delegates attended, 51 from overseas and 109 from Australia. 73 delegates were from industry and 87 from research organisations and government.
Implications
Australian native flowers are clearly internationally produced and traded products and constitute a significant proportion of new floriculture crops being developed internationally. Delegates attended from Denmark, Italy, Germany, Israel, Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, India, USA, New Zealand, Greece, Panama and Brazil. Research and controlled breeding of Australian native flowers is also underway internationally.
The workshop provided Australian growers and researchers with an opportunity to gain a global perspective both through the formal sessions and informally. Continued monitoring of international developments will be necessary for growers to remain viable and relevant to the marketplace. The proceedings provide an up-to-date collection of research papers presented in a grower friendly format.
RIRDC Project No: WNP-1A
RESEARCHER: Mr Philip Watkins ORGANISATION: Western Australian Wildflower Producers Association PO Box 716 CANNINGTON WA 6107 PHONE: 08 9525 1800 FAX: 08 9525 1607
Last updated: 22 October1997
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