RIRDC Completed Projects in 2002-2003

and Research in Progress as at June 2003

Sub Program 2.8 WILDFLOWERS

& NATIVE PLANTS

August 2003 RIRDC Publication No 03/067

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© 2003 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. All rights reserved. ISBN 0 642 58634 9 ISSN 1440 6845 "RIRDC Completed Projects in 2002-2003 and Research in Progress as at June 2003 - 2.8 Wildflowers and Native Plants" Publication No 03/067 The views expressed and the conclusions reached in this publication are those of the author and not necessarily those of persons consulted. RIRDC shall not be responsible in any way whatsoever to any person who relies in whole or in part on the contents of this report. This publication is copyright. However, RIRDC encourages wide dissemination of its research, providing the Corporation is clearly acknowledged. For any other enquiries concerning reproduction, contact the Publications Manager on phone 02 6272 3186.

RIRDC Wildflowers and Native Plants Research Manager Mr Max Bourke RIRDC Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie Street BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604

Phone: (02) 6247 4630 Email: mbourke@ruralfunds.com.au RIRDC Publications Manager Cecile Ferguson Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie Street BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604

Phone: (02) 6272 3186 Fax: (02) 6272 5877 Email: cecile.ferguson@rirdc.gov.au Website: http://www.rirdc.gov.au

Published in August 2003 Printed on environmentally friendly paper by Canprint

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Foreword

This year RIRDC has produced Research in Progress, June 2003, which contains short summaries of continuing projects as well as those that were completed during 2002-2003 for all of the Corporation’s 19 program areas. The complete report on all the programs is only available in electronic format on our website at http://www.rirdc.gov.au The following report is a hardcopy extract covering Sub-Program 2.8. It contains all entries from continuing and completed Wildflowers and Native Plants research projects funded by RIRDC. This program aims to improve the profitability, productivity and sustainability of the Australian wildflower and native plant industry. This report is the newest addition to our extensive catalogue of over 900 research reports, videos and CD-Roms of projects supported by RIRDC. Please contact us for the latest publications catalogue or view it on our website: • downloads at www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/Index.htm • purchases at www.rirdc.gov.au/eshop Simon Hearn Managing Director Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

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Contents

2.8 WILDFLOWERS AND NATIVE PLANTS COMPLETED PROJECTS

PROJECT No

PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE No

1. To understand, strengthen and develop markets DAV-193A Australian Cut Flower Best Bets Program Mr Tony Slater (03) 9210 9222 Department of Primary Industries

(Vic) 5

FEC-7A Stage 4 – Statistics that are recorded for the export flower industry

Ms Sally Sutton (03) 9258 6150 Australian Flower Export Council 6

2. To improve existing products and develop new ones BAF-2A Boronia heterophylla – Selection and development

of clones for commercial development Mr George Lullfitz (08) 9405 1607 Boutique Australian Flora 8

BAF-3A Scholtzia involucrata – Selection and development of clones for commercial development

Mr George Lullfitz (08) 9405 1607 Boutique Australian Flora 9

DAQ-262A Identify and evaluate the commercial potential for new foliage and cut flower species in North Queensland

Ms. Joanna Srhoj (07) 4048 4651 Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

10

UA-60A Industry Workshop and Production of Eucalypts for Floriculture

Prof. Margaret Sedgley (08) 8303 7248 The University of Adelaide 12

UNC-16A Delaying Postharvest Senescence of Cut Flowers Using Nitric Oxide

Prof. Ron Wills Dr Michael Bowyer

(02) 4348 4140 The University of Newcastle 13

UWA-69A Evaluation of Phytophthora tolerance in Leucadendron

Dr Guijun Yan Dr Ralph Sedgley Ben Croxford

(08) 9380 1240 University of Western Australia 14

3. To provide profitable and sustainable production systems DAN-181A Grafting Eriostemon australasius Mr Jonathan Lidbetter (02) 4348 1931 NSW Department of Agriculture 15

4. To enhance the human capital of the industry ANW-1A 6th Australian Wildflower Conference – Keys to

Progress and Profit

Mr Peter Abell (02) 4567 2050 Australian Native Flower Growers and Promoters Inc Ltd

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2.8 WILDFLOWERS AND NATIVE PLANTS

RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

PROJECT No

PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE No

2. To improve existing products and develop new ones DAQ-299A Development of North Queensland flower and

foliage species and industry Ms Joanna Srhoj (07) 4048 4651 Department of Primary Industries

(Qld) 18

DAV-184A Developing Leptospermum as an export cut flower crop: phase 2

Mr Tony Slater (03) 9210 9222 Department of Primary Industries (Vic)

19

UA-52A Production and postharvest handling of eucalypt bud and flower lines

Prof. Margaret Sedgley (08) 8303 7242 The University of Adelaide 20

US-105A Grevillea: Breeding and Development of Focal (Cut) Flowers

Prof. Peter Martin (02) 9351 8853 The University of Sydney 21

3. To provide profitable and sustainable production systems DAW-102A Improving profit in the Western Australian native

flower industry through benchmarking Mr.Gerry Parlevliet (08) 9368 3219 Department of Agriculture (WA) 22

IHA-1A An integrated ethylene management system for the waxflower industry

Mr Douglas Hall (08) 9272 9281 Innovating Horticulture Australia 23

KPW-2A Development of synthetic seeds for clonal propagation of Australian plants

Dr Kingsley Dixon (08) 9480 3637 Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority

24

UWA-67A Speeding up the release of new varieties of Leucadendron

Dr Guijun Yan (08) 9380 1240 University of Western Australia

25

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2.8 Wildflowers & Native Plants Completed Projects

1. To understand, strengthen and develop markets Project Title: Australian Cut Flower Best Bets Program

RIRDC Project No.: DAV-193A Researcher: Anthony T. Slater & Cynthia J. Carson Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Vic) Phone: (03) 9210 9222 Fax: (03) 9800 3521 Email: Tony.Slater@nre.vic.gov.au

Objectives To improve the profitability of the wildflower industry by expanding the Victorian

“Best Bets” program to include exporters around Australia. This included the provision of information on flowers that the markets want and are undersupplied, including details on the crops, the regions where they are suitable to grow in Queensland and nurseries where they can be obtained.

Background The Wildflower Industry has been growing mainly due to the increasing demand for wildflowers in Australia’s export markets. In the 1990’s wildflower exports did not increase as fast as expected, as the supply of wildflowers did not meet the demand. The large number of types of wildflowers causes a dilemma for growers. The demand for individual crops was not clear and there were no market statistics for the majority of species or cultivars of wildflowers. The Victorian Best Bets program has provided information on crops with a current export market demand, and has been a useful tool for growers in planning future crops for the export flower industry. This project sought to expand the Victorian program for growers in other Australian states, particularly Queensland growers.

Research Working with exporters relevant to Queensland growers, an analysis was conducted to produce a list of cut flowers crops for which there is unsatisfied demand. These companies are located in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, consequently the results of the analysis will also be important for growers in other states who use these export companies. For these cut flower crops the analysis also looked at their current price, any expected price change, their postharvest efficiency and cost, and any State to State differences in demands.

Outcomes The results of the analysis were published as a separate report (see below). The crops identified from this analysis should not be considered as guaranteed winners, however, all sectors of the flower industry can benefit from collectively listing which flowers will be in demand in the next few years. Information has also been produced to aid Queensland growers in increasing plantations of these crops.

Implications As all sectors of the industry need to be profitable, the Best Bets program is a valuable market research tool to provide information to growers to help expand the industry’s supply base. This will in turn increase the supply of flowers that exporters are receiving orders for, and therefore increase Australia’s flower exports.

Publications Slater, T. (2002). Australian Export Cut Flower Best Bets Analysis. Victorian Department of Natural Resources and Environment. Knoxfield.

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Project title: Stage 4 - Statistics that are recorded for the export flower industry

RIRDC Project No.: FEC-7A Researcher: Sally Sutton Organisation: Flower Export Council of Australia Phone: (03) 9258 6150 Fax: (03) 9258 6112 Email: feca@netspace.net.au

Objectives • The report presents the results summarising seasonal trends in flower export

statistics from the September 2000 to the December 2001 quarters. • The report continues analysis of the efficacy of using ABS statistics, and in

particular AHECC, for recording flower export information. • Examine the integrity of the current data and its impacts on the measurement of the

flower export industry.

Background While the Australian flower export industry has been operating for some time, few macro level analyses have been undertaken. The current report advances the work undertaken by Brooks (2001) and responds to continued industry and policy level needs.

Research For the first time, information on seasonal trends and exports to a 42 export markets is presented. The report also includes a number of methodological suggestions for future studies. It is a timely report, coming at a point of increased recognition of the need to progress the measurement and analysis of many smaller Australian primary industries

Outcomes The results bring out patterns in the flower export industry. Seasonal trends and the strength of particular flower categories and export markets are clear. Generally, there appears to be a low period in the March and June quarters. Fresh flowers occupy the great majority of the current market. Within the fresh flower category, Other Australian Species and Fresh Artificially Propagated Waxflowers are dominant. Japan, the USA and the Netherlands are the major export markets. The results given in this report confirm market trends, seasonal patterns and product demands. These results can be used to generate and support marketing and production strategies. Reviewing data on the levels and types of exports makes it possible to ensure alternative products are targeted in low periods and that demand matches supply. Environmental strategies can be implemented given figures from fresh wild picked categories. The results suggest that the dollar value and volume of flowers exported from Australia have been underestimated for a considerable period. This report indicates that current figures may underestimate the industry size by as much as 30%. It is important that accurate data for this export industry is obtained to encourage further investment, employment, and focused research and development. Methodological uncertainties in the current analysis are exposed. Despite many clear trends, the findings reported are made complex by unclarity in current measurements, and the lack of any holistic means of cross validating the current data. Despite recent revisions to the classifications used for measurement, this study demonstrates that the categories need to be further refined. To this end, a list of specific suggestions is given. The report also develops a rationale for obtaining additional and different forms of data capable of providing more accurate and reliable measurement of the industry. In addition to the substantive results, therefore, methodological suggestions are made for increasing the efficiency and accuracy of future studies.

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Implications 1. Additional production and export figures on the value of the industry need to be gathered from a range of sources both inside and outside Australia. This information can then be used to establish the reliability and validity of ABS data, particularly the dollar value estimates.

2. An independent audit of exporters and possibly certain growers should be undertaken to cross validate production and export statistics.

3. Additional data on exports should be obtained from significant export markets, including Japan, the USA and the Netherlands. This can be used to cross validate and, where necessary, adjust current ABS estimates.

4. Marketing strategies for the dried flower industry need to be investigated. It is possible that dried flower exports could make a particular contribution during the low March and June periods.

5. AHECC relating to the current industry need to be refined. The redefinition is particularly necessary in the case of a few categories which have current dominance. New categories have been proposed in this report.

6. Interstate flower movements need to be collated, as this is valuable information. 7. From an industry perspective, it may be useful to examine seasonal

complementarities of export countries and regions, particularly between the Asian and European markets.

8. Quantitative analysis of the Australian flower export market should be undertaken on an annual basis. These need to develop better means of diagnosing export patterns and developing explanatory models which can be used in developing production and marketing strategies.

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2. To improve existing products and develop new ones Project Title Boronia heterophylla - Selection and development of clones for

commercial development

RIRDC Project No.: BAF-2A Researcher: George A Lullfitz Organisation: Sunregal Holdings P/L

T/A BOUTIQUE AUSTRALIAN FLORA PO BOX 34 WANNEROO WA 6065

Phone: (08) 94051607 Fax: (08) 9306 2933 Email: sales@lullfitz.com.au

Objectives To provide a series of clones of Boronia heterophylla that have earlier and later

flowering times including a terminal flowering form. This will enable cut flower growers and exporters to supply the flower market with more continuity.

Background Boronia heterophylla flowering stems have been sourced in Western Australia for many years from natural stands. It is important from a conservation point of view that harvesting from natural stands has been curtailed and transferred to more superior cultivated forms. The majority of the existing cultivated plants appear to have originated from the same clone or from a very narrow range of genotypes. The market requires these flowers over a longer period of time. Attempts have been made to develop new varieties by introducing superior selections from natural stands and germinated seedlings.

Research Selections had previously been made from natural populations for early, late flowering and a terminal flowering form. A couple of plants of each were propagated and planted in ground at a cut flower farm for stock plants and further assessment. Propagation material was collected for cuttings and initiation into tissue culture. Grafting was used to multiply the number of plants for one remaining selection for evaluation purposes. The resulting selection was assessed for flowering time compared to the normally cultivated form.

Outcomes Propagation by cuttings using plant material from these stock plants was not successful. Only one of the selections survived in tissue culture. The stock plants all perished due to lack of water availability due to a hot dry summer. The selection which survived multiplied well in culture but proved extremely difficult to transfer successfully to soil. Grafting using scions of this selection to rootstock of Boronia clavata was very successful. Flowering trials confirmed that this selection of Boronia heterophylla flowers some weeks earlier than the commonly grown variety.

Implications This project has shown that it is possible to select desirable forms of plants by careful observation of natural populations. It also illustrates the part that tissue culture can play in the preservation of a potentially valuable plant selection. A new early flowering variety of Boronia heterophylla is now available for production and distribution to interested cut flower growers.

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Project Title Scholtzia involucrata - Selection and development of clones for

commercial development

RIRDC Project No.: BAF-3A Researcher: George A Lullfitz Organisation: Sunregal Holdings P/L

T/A BOUTIQUE AUSTRALIAN FLORA PO BOX 34 WANNEROO WA 6065

Phone: (08) 94051607 Fax: (08) 9306 2933 Email: sales@lullfitz.com.au

Objectives • To assess a range of clones of Scholtzia involucrata for their suitability in

the local and export cut flower industry. These varieties will provide a continuous range in flowering times and enable production of uniform and improved quality plant material.

• To make these new varieties available to the commercial cut flower industry.

Background The cut flower industry in Australia can capture a greater market share by introducing a range of new and improved plant varieties. The fall off in supply of native plant flowering material during the summer and autumn can be addressed by selecting plant varieties that flower during this period. Scholtzia involucrata fulfils the criteria. Existing supplies are sourced from the bush and quality is often very average. Output and quality can be improved by cultivation. This also reduces the impact on the natural bushland and contributes to its conservation.

Research This project involved assessment of a range of very good varieties selected from several widely spread locations within the natural habitat for their flowering time, growth habit and vigour. The plants selected included early, mid and late flowering forms. Plants were propagated and planted in the field for assessment of flowering times in cultivation.

Outcomes Several new varieties of Scholtzia involucrata suitable for cut flower production. These varieties provide a sequence of flowering times from mid November to mid February Recommendations are made concerning future investigations involving plants related to this species.

Implications This project makes available several new varieties providing continuity of supply. Improved quality and yield of flowering stems is possible by selecting superior varieties of Scholtzia involucrata.

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Project title: Identify and Evaluate the Commercial Potential for New Foliage and Cut Flower Species from North Queensland.

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-262A Researcher: Ms Joanna Srhoj Organisation: Queensland Horticulture Institute

PO Box 1054 MAREEBA QLD 4880

Phone: (07) 4048 4651 Fax: (07) 4092 3593 Email: Joanna.Srhoj@dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives To evaluate the potential of a selected range of tropical flowers and foliage as new cut

foliage products using market selection, vase life evaluation and production characteristics

Background North Queensland has a large range of native species with novel and attractive foliage. The selection and development of these species for the export market would provide a new range of exciting foliage for the market and for the cut flower and foliage industry of north Queensland.

Research The general and post-storage vase life of the species were determined. Foliage was stored for three days at 3, 10 or 20°C and general or post-storage vase life was evaluated at 20°C. A pictorial survey of the full species range was used at the commencement of the project to make initial species selections, and market assessments of foliage were conducted during the project. Field trials were conducted to investigate the ability of the species to grow in cultivation, their response to pruning and their ability to produce saleable products, and their susceptibility to pests and diseases

Outcomes Vase life was generally long, with most species having a vase life of over three weeks. 10°C was the best storage temperature to maximise post-storage vase life. The vase life of Stenocarpus ‘Forest Gem’, a variety with good market potential, was not compromised by storage at any temperature. Field trials indicated the species will grow in cultivation, but site and climatic differences do affect growth. Most species respond to pruning and produce saleable leaves or stems quite readily. Few disease problems were observed, although pest control will be important for the production of first-grade leaves. In conjunction with the vase life and field trials, market assessments have indicated that a number of species have good potential as new foliage products and require further development.

Implications New foliage species with good market and production potential are available for the producers of the northern flower and foliage industry. The species will provide new products and foliage during late spring when foliage supplies from southern areas is slow. While available to growers from other regions, the climatic requirements of the plants will need to be considered. All producers will need to consider the temperature of the transport systems available, as vase life experiments indicated the vase life of most of the species was compromised at low temperatures and therefore may not be compatible with transport with traditional flowers and foliages.

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Publications Australian Horticulture, May 2000 – ‘Rainforest species under trial for cutflower market.’ Australasian Flowers, Winter 2000 – ‘Trials of promising rainforest foliage begin.’ Australian Horticulture, June 2002 – ‘Far north plants under trial’.

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Project Title: Industry Workshop on Production of Eucalypts for Floriculture

RIRDC Project No.: UA-60A Researcher: Professor Margaret Sedgley Organisation: Department of Horticulture, Viticulture and Oenology, The University of Adelaide,

P.M.B. 1, GLEN OSMOND SA 5064 Phone: (08) 8303 7248 Fax: (08) 8303 7116 Email: margaret.sedgley@adelaide.edu.au

Objectives To gather key players in the eucalypt cut bud and flower sector of the industry for a

workshop on eucalypt production, where issues relating to the production of eucalypts will be discussed, with those discussions formulated to produce a manual on commercial eucalypt cut bud and flower production that will be published and made available to all interested parties.

Background A RIRDC program (UA-52A) has been underway at the Waite Campus, University of Adelaide, since 1999, investigating the production and postharvest handling of eucalypt bud and flower lines. During the time of the project, the need for an up-to-date reference manual for the industry has been identified through contact with industry partners at conferences and farm visits.

Research Thirty eight delegates from 24 enterprises attended the eucalypt production workshop. The workshop was divided into four sessions, varietal selection, marketing, postharvest treatments and production. Each session was managed by a guest speaker and panel, with delegate participation encouraged. The following day, 30 delegates gathered for field tours to observe interspecific hybrids growing under different conditions, and to comment on the morphology of the hybrids for floricultural uses.

Outcomes The workshop enabled players from the eucalypt industry to gather and network with others from all over Australia. The information generated at the workshop and field tour has been collated and prepared into an easy to use reference manual for growers, incorporating current published information and material available from growers and wholesalers. All delegates contributed to the content of the manual, which will markedly increase the knowledge base for producing eucalypts for floriculture. The delegates were provided with an opportunity to observe and discuss first hand RIRDC project UA-52A, providing valuable industry feedback for that project. All delegates agreed that such workshops should continue to be held on a biennial basis, providing the opportunity to update the manual with new information on all aspects of production of eucalypt buds and flowers.

Implications The workshop provided an opportunity for industry players to gather for information sharing and networking for the betterment of the whole industry. New business relationships and market opportunities can arise from such gatherings. The manual produced from the workshop covers the current best practice methods for the sustainable production of eucalypt cut bud and flower lines across a range of climatic and soil types. It is available to all growers and would-be growers of eucalypts.

Publications Horsman, C. & Delaporte, K.L. 2002. Eucalypts for Floriculture: A Growers’ Guide. Findings from an Industry Workshop on the Production of Eucalypts for Floriculture”. RIRDC publication 02/132

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Project Title: Delaying Postharvest Senescence of Cut Flowers Using Nitric Oxide

RIRDC Project No.: UNC-16A Researcher: Ron Wills and Michael Bowyer Organisation: Centre for the Advancement of Food Technology and Nutrition

School of Applied Sciences, Ourimbah Campus University of Newcastle PO Box 127 Ourimbah NSW 2258

Phone: (02) 43484119 Fax: (02) 43484145 Email: chmcb@cc.newcastle.edu.au

Objectives To examine new, alternative treatments for extending the postharvest life of native

Australian cut flowers.

Background Research conducted by our research group has established that DETA/NO – a soluble nitric oxide donor compound can significantly extend the postharvest life of several exotic species of cut flower. This research project aimed to assess the effects of this compound on Australian native flowers.

Research Seven flower species (paper daisy, ptilotus, kangaroo paw, isopogon, grevillea, Geraldton wax and waratah) were investigated. Factors such as the rate of water uptake and transpiration loss were investigated. Each flower species was pulsed with three of concentrations of DETA/NO (10, 100 and 1000 ppm) and the postharvest life compared against water and STS controls.

Outcomes Of the seven species investigated, four (ptilotus, kangaroo paw, grevillea and waratah) showed a positive response to pulse treatment with DETA/NO. In three of these cases (ptilotus, kangaroo paw, and waratah), the extension in postharvest life was greater than that observed for both the water control STS. The treatment also produced changes in the senescence pattern of each flower species that were not observed in the corresponding STS treatment. These included reductions in the occurrence of stem wilt and flower head wilt (in the case of ptilotis and kangaroo paw, and decreased incidence of mould growth in the case of waratah.

Implications The findings suggest that DETA/NO is effective in counteracting some of the undesirable postharvest characteristics that afflict certain species of native cut flowers. However, a more extensive long-term study is required to gain a comprehensive understanding of the actions of NO donor compounds on Australian native flowers

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Project Title: Evaluation of Phytophthora tolerance in Leucadendron

RIRDC Project No.: UWA 69A Researcher: Guijun Yan, Ben Croxford, Ralph Sedgley Organisation: Guijun Yan

School of Plant Biology Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences The university of Western Australia 35 Stirling Hwy Crawley, WA 6009 Australia

Phone: (08) 9380 1240 Fax: (08) 9380 1108 Email: Email:gyan@agric.uwa.edu.au

Objectives To develop a protocol for the screening of Leucadendron genotypes tolerant or

susceptible to Phytophthora cinnamomi, and to rank the important Leucadendron genotypes used in the breeding program.

Background Leucadendron is a major wild flower crop in Australia. To increase the competitiveness of the local industry, a breeding program based on interspecific hybridisation was initiated in 1998. Since this time, thousands of hybrid plants have been produced involving 27 different parental species. These were planted at the farms of contributing growers for evaluation but large losses have occurred at some sites with symptoms indicating that infection by Phytophthora cinnamomi may be responsible.

Research Three experiments were conducted to inoculate more than 40 Leucadendron genotypes both as established plants and as excised cuttings with Phytophthora cinnamomi pathogen. Both lesion development and plant death at day 12, day 24, day 36 and day 52 after inoculation were recorded to evaluate the tolerance and susceptibility of Leucadendron genotypes.

Outcomes Intact plants were very slow to show any symptoms with most genotypes remaining without symptoms after 80 days. Excised stems were more suitable for the assessment. The occurrence, length and tangential spread of lesions appear to correlate well with eventual death of excised stems. All cuttings that died in the trial first expressed lesions, those dying first and in highest percentages had the largest tangential and vertical lesion spread. This project has successfully developed a protocol, using excised stems, to assess the tolerance and susceptibility of Leucadendron genotypes to Phytophthora. The trialled Leucadendron genotypes can be divided into three categories: highly tolerant, medium tolerant and susceptible based on the lesion development and plant death rate.

Implications These results are helpful for the selection of parents in our breeding program to produce highly tolerant new Leucadendron varieties and may also be useful for the growers to make decisions on selecting suitable varieties on their properties.

Publications None at the moment but the results will be presented at the International Protea Association’s Conference in April, 2004 at Melbourne and published in Acta Horticulture.

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3. To provide profitable and sustainable production systems

Project Title: Grafting Eriostemon australasius

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-181A Researcher: Mr Jonathan Lidbetter Organisation: NSW Agriculture

National Centre for Greenhouse Horticulture Locked Bag 26, Gosford NSW 2250

Phone: 02 4348 1900 Fax: 02 4348 1910 Email: jonathan.lidbetter@agric.nsw.gov.au

Objectives To bring a range of Eriostemon australasius selections into commercial production

through grafting. To overcome the difficulty of propagating superior cut flower forms and field survival problems. To shorten the lead-time in developing cultivated Eriostemon as a major domestic and export crop.

Background Eriostemon australasius is an excellent cut flower with a long vase-life. Unfortunately, most of the E. australasius currently sold is bush-picked with the plants in cultivation mainly of one clonal variety. This species has been identified in both NSW and Victoria as a crop with excellent export potential for Europe and Asia, and FECA has reported its popularity with Japanese florists.

Research Techniques have been developed which allow the grafting of field selections and tissue cultures of Eriostemon australasius onto seedling or cutting grown rootstocks. This has allowed the rapid introduction of selected material from natural populations into cultivation and rapid deflasking of hard to strike tissue cultures. The grafted motherstock thus created provided further scions for grafting or cutting production. Cutting propagation has been successful but strike rates are extremely variable between clones. Rapid striking varieties have been identified with up to 73% of cuttings struck within 5 weeks. Intergeneric grafts with thirteen hardy rootstocks from eight closely related genera have failed to establish a long-term compatible combination although an initial union and growth were observed in all combinations.

Outcomes Over forty new varieties have been introduced into cultivation and assessed by collaborators in 2001 and 2002. Over 450 cutting grown or grafted plants of the selections have been propagated for planting out on grower’s properties. Cultivation of a range of selections across the country will see a significant expansion in the seasonal and colour form availability of this species. Industry interest in the project is high with numerous requests for access to plant material.

Implications This project has shown that grafting is an incredibly useful tool for introducing new varieties of Eriostemon australasius into cultivation. This has much wider implications, suggesting that any difficult to propagate field selection (eg. banksias or eucalypts) may be brought into cultivation by grafting. Direct grafting of tissue cultures also has implications

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for breeding programs where the rapid deflasking and accelerated growth of grafted tissue cultures is an advantage. At this stage no alternate rootstock has been identified that will allow the easy cultivation of Eriostemon australasius on a greater range of soil types.

Publications Lidbetter, J. (2000) ‘New and Potential East Coast Crops’. Proceedings of the First Australian Flower Conference. Mingara Club, Tumbi Umbi, NSW. Moody, H. (June 2001) ‘Propagating superior Eriostemon’ Australian Horticulture pp.44-46. Slater, T. (2000) ‘Floricultural research and development in Tasmania and Victoria’. Proceedings of the First Australian Flower Conference. Mingara Club, Tumbi Umbi, NSW. Slater, T., Lidbetter, J., Cain, P. and Vujovic, C. (2002) ‘Eriostemon australasius – capturing the variation’. Proceedings of the 6th Australian Wildflower Conference. Sunnybrook Hotel, Warwick Farm, Sydney, NSW.

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4. To enhance the human capital of the industry Project Title: 6th Australian Wildflower Conference – Keys to Progress and

Profit

RIRDC Project No.: ANW-1A Researcher: Peter Abell Organisation: ANFGP (Australian Native Flower Growers and Promoters) Phone: (02) 4567 2050 Email: passion@pnc.com.au

Objectives To sponsor specific activities in accordance with RIRDC objectives at the 6th

Australian Wildflower Conference; 1. Poster display 2. Keynote speaker and session sponsorship

Background Industry groups and previous conference delegates provide the demand for

conferences, through a need for interaction on a regular basis. The previous Wildflower Conference (5th) in Melbourne was run during April 1999. The three year period between the 5th and 6th is widely considered by both industry and the research community as being appropriate. The 6th Australian Wildflower Conference is a joint initiative of the ANFGP (Australian Native Flower Growers and Promoters), AFPGA (Australian Flora and Protea Growers Association), NSW Agriculture, Royal Botanic Gardens and The University of Sydney and well as having active input from other industry and government agencies. It provides the opportunity for industry and research to get together and exchange ideas and discuss matters important to the wildflower industry. RIRDC has been involved financially at several previous wildflower conferences and the continued involvement was sought.

Research There is no research associated with this project.

Outcomes The sponsorship of specific activities at the 6th Australian Wildflower Conference was carried out. Florence Treverrow and Amelia Martyn were the winners of the RIRDC sponsored poster display and received a RIRDC grant to be used to attend another industry based workshop/conference. RIRD sponsored a keynote speaker and session. It also provided the opportunity for a RIRDC representative to chair the session and say a few words about the role of RIRDC in the Wildflower industry. Attendance at the conference totaled 200 delegates from all states of Australian and a couple from overseas.

Implications It is considered widely that conferences and workshops should be held regularly to keep growers abreast of new trends, varieties and production methodology. The 6th Australian Wildflower Conference provided the opportunity for the dissemination of knowledge and the opportunity for growers to ‘network’ with their colleagues and researchers from other states. This dissemination of knowledge will lead to better production both in flower quality and volume and hence better service throughout the industry.

Publications Proceedings were produced with full copies of presented papers included. These are available to non delegates from NSW Agriculture. The Horticultural media and grower associations published promotion and reports on the event, these included; Flower News, Agriculture Today, Buds and Bracts, ANFGP Newsletter, The Land, Australasian Flowers, Australian Horticulture, Nursery and Garden News, Australian institute of Horticulture News, Floraculture International, Ornamentals Update, Flower Link, Commercial Horticulture.

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2.8 Wildflowers & Native Plants Research in Progress

2. To improve existing products and develop new ones Project Title Development of north Queensland flower and foliage species and

industry

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-299A Start Date: 12-Jan-02 Finish Date: 30-Nov-04 Researcher: Ms. Joanna Srhoj Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Qld)

Amenity Horticulture QHI PO Box 1054 MAREEBA QLD 4880

Phone: (07) 4048 4651 Fax: (07) 4092 3593 Email: Joanna.Srhoj@dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives • Commercial development of Stenocarpus sp. Tully River medium and fine

forms (Forest Gem and Forest Lace respectively) and of Lomatia fraxinifolia, Athertonia diversifolia, Grevillea baileyana (leaf and stem production), Xanthostemon chrysantus, Sancotoecia serrata, Banksia plagiocarpa, Evodiella muelleri, Eucalyptus phoenicea and Neorites kevediana.

• Increased industry size and capability. • Economic viability of species evaluated.

Current Progress

Two field trials have been established on the Atherton Tablelands, one on DPI’s Southedge research station located west of Mareeba and the other trial site is on Stewart Evans (experienced native foliage grower) property located on the outskirts of Yungaburra. At the Southedge site, Grevillea baileyana, Stenocarpus Forest Lace, and Stenocarpus Forest Gem are planted. The Yungaburra site has these three species as well as Athertonia diversifolia and Lomatia fraxinifolia. These trials are in the early establishment stage and are being monitored weekly. Fertiliser programs and treatments are being developed in collaboration with the senior soil scientist based in Mareeba, and will be based on results of soil analysis carried out prior to trial establishment. A demonstration plot is also being established at Yuruga Nursery to assess the growth of Lomatia fraxinifolia and Athertonia diversifolia under cover. A field day is being planned for July or early August to communicate project results and demonstrate trial set up. A post harvest trial is also being planned and will be carried out in June. Information is being collected on a weekly basis for use in the development of information kits at the completion of the project.

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Project Title Developing Leptospermum as an export cut flower crop: phase 2

RIRDC Project No.: DAV-184A Start Date: 1/7/2000 Finish Date: 30/9/2003 Researcher: Mr Tony Slater Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Victoria) Phone: (03) 9210 9222 Fax: (03) 9800 3521 Email: Tony.Slater@dpi.vic.gov.au

Objectives The production of superior Leptospermum hybrids that can continuously supply

cut flowers for the market, through a breeding program using superior selections.

Current Progress

During the last flowering season the superior forms of Leptospermum were again used as parents in the breeding program. Over 200 crosses were performed providing 35 different combinations of parents. The breeding concentrated on using late season flowering species, and one parent that we had previously been unsuccessful hybridising. This species was included after we determined how its reproductive biology differed from the other species. The seed from the hybrid crosses are continuing to be germinated. In the last year over 1400 hybrid seedlings have been planted at the field site. A large number of inferior hybrids have been removed from the site and there are currently over 2300 hybrids growing in the field. During the last flowering season, a range of hybrids flowered for the first time. Over 700 hybrids were assessed for their flowering characteristics and the better forms were assessed for their vase life. A number are showing a good combination of flowering display and a long vase life. Thirteen styles of hybrids have been identified, some with very interesting displays. The various markets for these hybrids are currently being investigated and a commercialisation strategy for each of the markets is being developed.

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Project Title Production and postharvest handling of eucalypt bud and

flower lines

RIRDC Project No.: UA-52A Start Date: 20-Sep-99 Finish Date: 7-May-04 Researcher: Prof. Margaret Sedgley Organisation: The University of Adelaide

Department of Horticulture, Viticulture and Oenology Waite Agricultural Research Institute PMB 1 GLEN OSMOND SA 5064

Phone: (08) 8303 7242 Fax: (08) 8303 7116 Email: margaret.sedgley@adelaide.edu.au

Objectives • Hybridisation of novel eucalypt lines for fresh bud and flower cut stems

• Field trial of the novel lines to develop training and pruning regimes for optimum production

• Investigation of clonal propagation of superior lines • Development of postharvest treatments to allow transport of quality product

to distant markets. • Investigation of marketability of lines.

Current Progress

Hybridisation. During the project, 79 different species combinations were attempted, with 12 repeated crosses. Of these, 17 crosses produced hybrid seedlings, 36 failed to produce viable seedlings and 38 have yet to be harvested. 194 hybrids reached reproductive maturity in 2002, and were assessed for their horticultural potential. Plants were assessed using a rating system developed for rapid selection. Industry collaborators were sent a CD containing photographs, information and scores from the rating system for comment, with 12 hybrids selected for further work. Pruning Trials. Trials have been initiated at Calperum station to determine response to season of pruning on young plants. The regrowth from the pruning trial at Waite has been assessed, and preliminary analysis suggests that all treatments (flat to 1m, cube to 1m, general thinning) produce more stems of greater length than the control. Pruned plants flowered 24 months after pruning, compared to yearly flowering for the controls. Clonal Propagation. E. erythronema x E. stricklandii and E. spathulata x E. sargentii can be grafted successfully, although after graft plant care requires investigation. Plant growth regulators for root and shoot initiation in vitro were identified for some species. Postharvest. Material from the pruning trial has been used to determine the effect of a number of postharvest treatments on Eucalyptus stems. Mean vase life of E. tetragona is 27 days, E. yalatensis is 13 days and E. forrestiana is 14 days. Clean water was the best postharvest treatment for all species. Investigation of marketability of lines. Over 100 hybrids will be assessed this year for marketability, using the rating system combined with industry comment.

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Project Title Grevillea: Breeding and Development of Focal (Cut) Flowers

RIRDC Project No.: US-105A Start Date: 3-Jan-01 Finish Date: 30-Nov-04 Researcher: Prof. Peter Martin Organisation: The University of Sydney

Plant Breeding Institute - Cobbitty PMB 11 Camden NSW 2570

Phone: (02) 9351 8853 Fax: (02) 9351 8875 Email: pmartin@camden.usyd.edu.au

Objectives • Improve protocols for cut flower production of Grevillea varieties.

• Produce advanced lines incorporating the following traits that will deliver answers to the deficiencies in the current Grevillea cultivars as used in the cut flower industry: longer stem length, greater floral production, improved range of flower colours resistant to perianth drop, improved vase life and resistance to transport damage.

• Demonstrate the commercial viability of cut flower Grevilleas. • Breed (PBR) protectable cultivars suitable for the cut flower trade.

Current Progress

Cut flower production protocols. Training of branches of selected cultivars along wires in a similar manner to that used for grape vines was tested to see whether the upright laterals induced would develop longer stems with stronger apical dominance. Some varieties showed a small improvement, but these gains were completely outweighed by the time and effort required in pruning and training. Developmental analysis of infloresences is now in progress with a view to determining critical periods for trials with pulsed nutrition. Production of advanced lines to address deficiencies in cultivars currently used in cut flower production. A comprehensive review of the genus was carried out to identify sources of desirable traits such as unusual colour combinations, long stems, large infloresences, high flower production and tolerance of heavy soils. Eighty nine species selected in this process have now been intercrossed in various combinations and with existing varieties. Success was achieved in about 45% of the 300 crosses made and the hybrid seed is now being raised for detailed evaluation. To provide greater flexibility in future breeding work, a study of pollen storage protocols has commenced. Demonstration of commercial viability of cut flower Grevilleas. Planting of a new 0.5ha demonstration area for this purpose has commenced.

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3. To provide profitable and sustainable production systems Project Title Improving profit in the Western Australian native flower

industry through benchmarking

RIRDC Project No.: DAW-102A Start Date: 19-Aug-02 Finish Date: 31-Dec-03 Researcher: Mr. Gerry Parlevliet Organisation: Department of Agriculture (WA)

Locked Bag No 4 BENTLEY DELIVERY CENTRE WA 6983

Phone: (08) 9368 3219 Fax: (08) 9368 3946 Email: gerryp@agric.wa.gov.au

Objectives To enable growers of native Australian plants to increase profitability by

identifying improved practices and processes through benchmarking their enterprise. The outputs will include a manual, forms and a series of seminars and a pilot study with 3-4 groups of growers.

Current Progress

The project is designed to work with flower growers to collect their information on production and marketing parameters. The data is then analysed and a set of indices prepared that will allow comparison of performance between growers and within enterprises. The information will help growers improve their management decisions and improve profitability. A review of literature has indicated a lack of previous work on flower enterprises. However a new project in Queensland has recently started some activity on roses. Work in other industries provides a wealth of guidance for this project. A draft self-help manual to enable growers to conduct benchmarking has been written and is being used with some growers. The project has developed a Microsoft Excel based table for data entry and calculation of indices. This is being modified as the project develops. Hardcopy forms have been developed and supplied to some growers. Seminar and Conference presentations have been made on the project and also on the benefits and process of benchmarking enterprises. Articles have appeared in the Floriculture Newsletter. A number of growers have generously provided their time and data to enable benchmarking of some or all of their enterprise. The flower industry has periods that restrict growers from finding time to work through the data they have and collate it for benchmarking. They are also finding that they do not collect adequate data on production to adequately refine benchmarking to the varietal level. As a result the numbers of growers involved is disappointing and those that are interested need extended time to pin down their data. High overheads on smaller properties are distorting the indices for those growers.

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Project Title An integrated ethylene management system for the waxflower

industry

RIRDC Project No.: IHA-1A Start Date: 1-Jan-01 Finish Date: 31-Mar-04 Researcher: Mr. Douglas Hall Organisation: Innovating Horticulture Australia

Principal Consultant 68 Shaftesbury Avenue BAYSWATER WA 6053

Phone: (08) 9272 9281 Email: iha@git.com.au

Objectives This project will significantly improve the quality, consistency and image of

Waxflower exported from Australia. This will be achieved by establishing a scientifically based ethylene management system as a standard component of Waxflower production across the majority of the national industry. The management system will incorporate both STS- and 1-MCP-based anti-ethylene treatments and will be compatible with Quality Assurance systems such as AQAF, ISO9002 and SQF2000. Strong collaborative interactions and training activities, throughout the project, will deliver important generic outcomes - changed attitudes to quality management and improved quality practices. A Manual describing the system and how to use it will be produced.

Current Progress

The project consists of three major activities: 1. establish the nationwide operation of an integrated management system for

monitoring and improving the effectiveness of anti-ethylene treatments, 2. improve the effectiveness of commercial application of STS through

improved protocols, 3. develop a commercially viable system for applying the gaseous anti-

ethylene agent, 1-MCP, to Waxflowers. A fundamental principal of this project is the synthesis of research, development, implementation and training into a holistic approach to the innovation process. This approach continues to rapidly deliver outcomes to industry with high levels of adoption through active participation and a sense of ownership by industry. During the 2002 season, benchmarking has continued through operation of monitoring systems by major exporters across Australia. This data, together with other elements of the ethylene management system, are for the first time providing growers, exporters and the national industry with a framework for continual performance improvement. A prototype application system for 1-MCP was successfully trialed in a commercial environment with 10,000 bunches fully protected against ethylene and exported. During the 2003 flowering season, activities will include consolidation of monitoring activities with exporters, corrective actions with growers, trialing improved STS protocols and conducting further semi-production trials of MCP.

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Project Title Development of synthetic seeds for clonal propagation of

Australian plants

RIRDC Project No.: KPW-2A Start Date: 8-Jan-02 Finish Date: 14-Jul-05 Researcher: Dr. Kingsley Dixon Organisation: Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority

Fraser Av WEST PERTH WA 6005

Phone: (08) 9480 3637 Fax: (08) 9480 3641 Email: kdixon@kpbg.wa.gov.au

Objectives Delivery of superior and low cost mass propagation method (via synthetic

seeds) for native plant taxa, which cannot be produced efficiently for restoration and/or horticultural utilisation by conventional propagation methods.

Current Progress

The project is progressing satisfactorily and substantial progress has been made. While some impediments were encountered (such as lack of germination of seeds of commercially important lines provided by the industrial partners) regarding the establishment of plant material for in vitro clonal propagation, the research group was able to overcome those problems with expert assistance from Kings Park seed scientists. For example, seed of Macropidia was extremely recalcitrant (ie. did not germinate), however after heat treatment (100oC for 3 hr), seeds germinated. Many experiments had to be conducted to achieve this success. Germinated seeds were successfully established in vitro for explant sources to be used in the development of artificial seeds. Plant material harvested from these plants were cultured successfully and observations so far suggest that growth regulators are providing signals for regenerative events to occur. With Stirlingia latifolia, in vitro culture is progressing satisfactorily. Three Stirlingia clones of interest are producing regenerative structures. Loxocarya cinerea has always displayed endogenous contamination regardless of the source and many experiments are under way to resolve this problem. Another study species, Leucopogon verticillatus has no immediate problems to resolve and research on this species has received less priority during the current year.

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Project Title Speeding up the release of new varieties of Leucadendron

RIRDC Project No.: UWA-67A Start Date: 11-Jan-01 Finish Date: 30-Nov-04 Researcher: Dr. Guijun Yan Organisation: University of Western Australia

Plant Sciences Faculty of Agriculture NEDLANDS WA 6009

Phone: (08) 9380 1240 Fax: (08) 9380 1108 Email: gyan@agric.uwa.edu.au

Objectives • The main outcome will be a bank of hybrid genotypes from which future

varieties will be developed. This will require the rapid reduction of a large initial hybrid population to a manageable size.

• In practical terms this will require us: • To develop an early selection system based on morphological and molecular

markers • To develop protocols for the quick multiplication of selected potential new

varieties • To reduce the potential number of hybrid plants of >18,000 to an elite group

of less than 4000, and • To release at least two new Leucadendron varieties from our ongoing

interspecific hybridisation program

Current Progress

Our research has been concentrating on the propagation of selected Leucadendron hybrids. Several experiments have been conducted regarding the in vitro initiation, multiplication, rootstrike and deflasking of Leucadendron selections. In the initiation experiment, the concentration and exposure time combination of NaOCl was found to significantly affect the successful initiation of Leucadnedron selection. Treatment for 20 min with 1% NaOCl was found to be most effective. BAP concentration was found to increase the number of shoots produced but produce shorter shoots and in some cases vitrified shoots when the concentration was too high. Four methods of striking roots on micro cuttings and deflasking plantlets have been compared using 3 Leucadendron genotypes. Both genotypes and treatments have influenced the rootstrike and final survival rate. Data is still being analysed but good success has been achieved when micro-cuttings were struck directly into soil-based media. In the propagation experiment by cuttings, the results have so far shown that genotype, season and type of material used all influenced the success of cutting propagation. Results will be finished soon and then analysed for the November milestone report.