RIRDC Completed Projects in 2004-2005 and Research In Progress as at June 2005

Sub-Program 1.6 WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE

September 2005

RIRDC Publication No 05/061 © 2005 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. All rights reserved.

ISNB 1 74151 159 3 ISSN 1440-6845

"RIRDC Completed Projects in 2004-05 and Research in Progress as at June 2005 -1.6 Wildflowers & Native Plants" Publication No 05/061

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 6272 3207 Fax: 02 6272 5877 Email: [email protected]

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: [email protected] Website: http://www.rirdc.gov.au

Published in September 2005 Printed on environmentally friendly paper by Canprint

ii Foreword

This year RIRDC has produced Research in Progress, June '05, which contains short summaries of continuing projects as well as those that were completed during 2004-2005 for all of the Corporation’s 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 1.6. 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 industry.

This report is the newest addition to our extensive catalogue of over 1000 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

Peter O’Brien Managing Director Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

iii Contents

1.6 WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS - COMPLETED PROJECTS

PROJECT PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE NO. No 2. To improve existing products and develop new ones DAQ-299A Development of North Queensland flower Ms Joanna Srhoj (07) 4048 4651 Department of Primary and foliage species and industry Industries and Fisheries (Qld) DNT-34A Identifying export potential for north Mr Mark Hoult (08) 8999 2338 Department of Business, Australian wildflowers - Phase 1 Industry and Resource Development (NT) UA-52A Production and postharvest handling of Prof Margaret Sedgley (08) 8303 7249 The University of Adelaide eucalypt bud and flower lines UQ-117A Haemodorum coccineum production in Dr Margaret Johnston (07) 5460 1240 The University of Queensland southeast Queensland US-105A : Breeding and Development of Prof. Peter Martin (02) 9351 8853 The University of Sydney Focal (Cut) Flowers 4. To enhance the human capital of the industry UQ-113A Seventh Australian Wildflower Conference Dr Margaret Johnston (07) 5460 1240 The University of Queensland

iv

1.6 WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS – RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

PROJECT PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE NO. No 1. To understand, strengthen and develop markets DAN-235A Improving Market Access for Australian Dr Jenny Ekman (02) 4348 1900 NSW Department of Primary Wildflowers Industries 2. To improve existing products and develop new ones DAN-231A On-farm evaluation of grafted wildflowers Mr Jonathon Lidbetter (02) 4348 1931 NSW Department of Primary for commercial cutflower production Industries DAN-234A Flannel Flowers the Year Round: a model Dr Ross Worrall (02) 4348 1900 NSW Department of Primary protected cultivated system Industries DAV-210A Development of Leptospermum hybrids Mr Tony Slater (03) 9210 9222 Department of Primary Industries (Vic) DAW-107A Nutrient management of waxflower for Mr. Gerry Parlevliet (08) 9368 3219 Department of Agriculture (WA) quality and yield under adequate irrigation levels DAW-111A Maximising root quality of waxflower tube Dr. Kevin Seaton (08) 9368 3244 Department of Agriculture (WA) stock suitable for field planting UA-67J Development of novel eucalypt hybrids Prof Margaret Sedgley (08) 8303 7249 The University of Adelaide 3. To provide profitable and sustainable production systems DAQ-324A Market development and commercial Ms Joanna Srhoj (07) 4048 4651 Department of Primary production of five native foliage products Industries and Fisheries (Qld) KPW-2A Development of synthetic seeds for clonal Dr Kingsley Dixon (08) 9480 3637 Botanic Gardens and Parks propagation of Australian plants Authority UWA-67A Speeding up the release of new varieties Dr Guijun Yan (08) 9380 1240 University of Western Australia of

v WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS COMPLETED PROJECTS

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 Researcher: Ms Joanna Srhoj Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld) Phone: (07) 4048 4651 Fax: (07) 4092 3593 Email: [email protected] Objectives • Commercial development of sp. Tully River medium and fine forms (Forest Gem and Forest Lace respectively) and of fraxinifolia, diversifolia, (leaf and stem production), Xanthostemon chrysantus, Sancotoecia serrata, plagiocarpa, Evodiella muelleri, Eucalyptus phoenicea and kevediana. • Increased industry size and capability. • Economic viability of species evaluated. Background These five native foliage species were selected for commercial development based on the results of a previous project – DAQ-262A. G. baileyana, L. fraxinifolia and A. diversifolia are all native to rainforests in north Queensland. S. ‘Forest Gem’ and S. ‘Forest Lace’ have been developed by Yuruga Nursery and are protected by Plant Breeders Rights.

Research This research project has involved a number of different activities including: 3 field trials, post harvest research, test marketing, economic analysis and grower education. The field trials were used to test the impact of fertiliser and pruning treatments on plant health, survival, growth rates and yields. Post harvest trials have been used to test the vase life of A. diversifolia and L. fraxinifolia under a range of conditions. Tip maturity on S. ‘Forest Gem’ and S. ‘Forest Lace’ has been also assessed after a period of transport. Market research has been carried out in collaboration with wholesalers. Test samples of product have been sent for evaluations on a number of occasions throughout the project. Economic analysis has involved calculating gross margins for production of S. ‘Forest Gem’ and S. ‘Forest Lace’ grown under an intensive system of 8400 plants per hectare. Grower education and extension of project results has been a very important part of this project. Field walks, field days, meetings and information kits have all contributed to the extension of project results.

Outcomes There have been a number of important outcomes from the research. Field trial results have revealed that S. ‘Forest Gem’ explants from hyko cells are not a viable option for industry. These plants took longer to establish and exhibited high losses when compared to the same species planted from forestry tubes. The growth rates and yield (1st year) have been determined for most species. All species were found to grow twice as fast during the summer months than in the winter months. Post harvest trials have revealed that Chrysal Professional 3 vase solution can extend the vase life of A. diversifolia leaves when compared to leaves tested in deionised water alone. Both A. diversifolia and L. fraxinifolia leaves exhibit satisfactory vase life under a range of conditions. Market research has provided indications of grower returns for the foliages. Information kits have been developed for existing and potential growers.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 1 Research Report 2005 Implications • Bruising of A. diversifolia and L. fraxinifolia occurs easily during transport • S. ‘Forest Gem’ and S. ‘Forest Lace’ hyko explants are not recommended for industry Publications Information kits on the commercial production of each species. Final Report

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 2 Research Report 2005

Project Title: Identifying export potential for north australian wildflowers - Phase 1

RIRDC Project No.: DNT-34A Researcher: Mr Mark Hoult Organisation: Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT) Phone: (08) 8999 2338 Fax: (08) 8999 2307 Email: [email protected] Objectives • Review north Australian species and evaluate potential via a matrix approach interfacing genus/species with key market critea as defined by exporters - part 1. • Evaluate the scope for southern, commercial wildflower species (eg. 'Best Bets' listing) for 'out of season' production during the key market window - part 2. • Publish this review with priority species identified and development plan devised. • Seek further funding for implementation of development plan for priority species Background In January 2004 RIRDC called for expressions of interest from researchers for projects to address a need in export markets for a feature or feature filler, red coloured flower that would be available from November through to March. DNT 34A “Identifying export potential for north Australian wildflowers” resulted from this funding.

Research Review north Australian wildflower species and evaluate potential to meet key market criteria as defined by exporters.

Outcomes Only four wildflower genera and/or species from the “Top End” of the Northern Territory were identified as having potential for meeting the export market criteria of the RIRDC proposal, namely Corymbia (Northern bloodwoods ), Grevillea, Haemodorum and Petraeomyrtus punicea. Also a number of other species identified as having good scope for development and may compliment southern species.

Implications Northern wildflower species may offer unique products, often during a period when traditional species are not available. A “partnership” opportunity may also exist to link, in a marketing context, these new products with natural icons, such as Kakadu and culturally with the indigenous communities of north Australia, thus ensuring a very Australian product.

Publications NA

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 3 Research Report 2005

Project Title: Production and postharvest handling of eucalypt bud and flower lines

RIRDC Project No.: UA-52A Researcher: Prof Margaret Sedgley Organisation: The University of Adelaide Phone: (08) 8303 7249 Fax: (08) 8303 7116 Email: [email protected] 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. • Plant Breeders Rights registration and commercial release. Background New eucalypt cultivars for cut stem production are essential for the future competitiveness of this export industry.

Research Research addressed the development of interspecific hybrids, evaluation of these hybrids for superior characteristics, investigation of their postharvest vase life, investigation of vegetative propagation, and investigation of pruning treatments.

Outcomes Twelve superior selections have been produced for further evaluation. Clean water is the best postharvest treatment, vegetative propagation is possible via cuttings, grafting and tissue culture, and pruning back to 1 m is essential to stimulate required stem length.

Implications Registration of these selections for Plant Breeders Rights will furnish the Australian cut stem industry with a strong competitive advantage.

Publications Delaporte, KL & Sedgley, M 2004, ‘Selection and breeding of eucalypts for Ornamental Horticulture,’ in T Fernandez & C Davidson (eds), Acta Horticulturae, vol. 630, pp. 77-84. Sedgley, M. and K.L. Delaporte. 2002. Selection and breeding of Eucalypts for Ornamental Horticulture. Australian Society for Horticultural Science Conference, Sydney, 30th September to 2nd October 2002. K.L. Delaporte. and M. Sedgley. 2002. Gumnuts Galore: the pursuit of the ultimate eucalypt. The 6th Australian Wildflower Conference, Sydney, 30th May to 1st June, 2002.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 4 Research Report 2005

Project Title: Haemodorum coccineum production in southeast Queensland

RIRDC Project No.: UQ-117A Researcher: Dr Margaret Johnston Organisation: The University of Queensland Phone: (07) 5460 1240 Fax: (07) 5460 1112 Email: [email protected] Objectives • Develop a tissue culture propagation system for Haemodorum coccineum using seed obtained by our collaborator. • Study the reproductive biology of the species in order to obtain more viable seeds from plants growing in south east Queensland. • Collect or obtain a range of Haemodorum material from north Queensland for evaluation in south east Queensland. • To evaluate lines for flowering time, flowering percentage, stem length, flower colour and quality. Background Haemodorum seeds from three sources were initiated into tissue culture but only a few lines have multiplied. Lines that failed to multiply have been successfully transferred ex vitro. Five lines have multiplied to form lateral shoots on a medium containing 2 µM benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 2.5 µM naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). Plants from these lines have been transferred from tissue culture for evaluation. Seed was collected from 2 sites in North Queensland.

Research Plants established from seed planted in January 2004 and transplanted into the field in July 2004, flowered in January/February 2005. These plants produced 1.4 flowering stems per plant, ranging in size from 46 to 77 cm. Flowering stem yield per plant will increase substantially with plant age.

Outcomes Dr Lilly Lim and Associate Professor Tony Dunne completed a market evaluation of haemodorum in Japan in March 2005. However this study was limited as there were only limited quantities of material available. The comments received suggested that "the main issues that need to be resolved prior to marketing haemodorum would be its vase life and the uniformity of flower stages once harvested. Another issue may be the size of the flower head in relation to the stem length".

Implications Publications

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 5 Research Report 2005

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

RIRDC Project No.: US-105A Researcher: Prof. Peter Martin Organisation: The University of Sydney Phone: (02) 9351 8853 Fax: (02) 9351 8875 Email: [email protected] 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 . • Breed (PBR) protectable cultivars suitable for the cut flower trade. Background There are over 350 species of Grevillea in Australia.. Grevillea banksii and related cultivars and species have large spikes of attractive flowers and are used to some extent as key (focal) elements in floral arrangements. A large potential market for Grevillea flowers of this type exists in Australia and overseas, but various deficiencies in the currently available varieties have limited their acceptability to florists. These deficiencies include short stems, limited vase life, limited number of first class flowers per bush and pemature perianth drop The principal aim of this project is to breed new varieties of cut-flower Grevillea with improved commercial attributes.

Research A large scale controlled crossing programme (emasculation and hand pollination) was conducted with the following components: (i) variety x variety crosses within the existing cut-flower types, (ii) variety x parental species backcrosses, (iii) variety x non-parental species crosses, and (iv) species x species crosses. Seed produced was grown-on for assessment under field conditions. Some work was also carried out on training protocols as a possible method of improving flower attributes and on frost as a factor limiting the use of some varieties for winter and early spring flower-production.

Outcomes Successful achievement of a large number of crosses in categories (I) to (iii) and a limited success in category (iv). About 400 hybrid plants are now being grown in the open field for assessment and seed of many more crosses is yet to be germinated. About 60 hybrids from the 2002 crossing programme have now (June 2005) flowered and nine have been selected for detailed assessment. Training methods were found to be of no value for improving the proportion of quality flowers . Many existing cut flower cultivars have been found to be too risky for field production of flowers in outer western Sydney and similar regions because of insufficient frost hardiness.

Implications By the time the ssessment of all the hybrids produced in this project is completed it is expected that at least five new cut flower varieties with improved characteristics in the target areas will be released under PBR protection for the use of the industry. Some improved types for garden use will also be released.

Publications Freebaairn, A.K., Martin, P.M. and Brown, G.N. (2004) “Grevillea Breeding at the University of Sydney ‘s Plant Breeding Institute”. Poster paper and Abstract, 12th International Association Conference, Melbourne, April 2004.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 6 Research Report 2005

Project Title: Seventh Australian Wildflower Conference

RIRDC Project No.: UQ-113A Researcher: Dr Margaret Johnston Organisation: The University of Queensland Gatton Phone: (07) 5460 1240 Fax: (07) 5460 1112 Email: [email protected] Objectives The objectives of the conference are: • To disseminate information about relevant current research being conducted; • To provide networking opportunities and special interest discussion forums; • To encourage discussion that will enable the current or future needs of industry to be identified and addressed; and • To improve linkages across the supply chain by providing opportunities for interaction of trade and industry members. Background An Australian Native Flower Conference sponsored by RIRDC has been held every second year since 1994.

Research Funding supported the Seventh Australian Native Flower Conference held from the 25-28th May 2005 at The Bardon Centre, Mt Coot-tha, Brisbane. Communication is recognised as an essential component of R&D programs and the conference allowed industry members and researchers a valuable networking opportunity. It also provided the opportunity for review and discussion of the current marketing and technical research being conducted, and exposure to international and national keynote speakers.

Outcomes The conference attracted 137 participants from Australia, Chile, China, Israel, Japan and New Caledonia. There were 5 interactive workshops each day and several sessions where recent marketing and technical research was presented. Field trip to the Gatton and Sunshine Coast districts were well attended.

Implications The conference provided an opportunity for communication, networking and sharing of information between industry members, researchers and other participants of the value chain.

Publications Conference Abstract and Handouts was provided to all delegates. A smaller publication containing the referred publication will be completed by September 2005.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 7 Research Report 2005

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

1. TO UNDERSTAND, STRENGTHEN AND DEVELOP MARKETS

Project Title: Improving Market Access for Australian Wildflowers

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-235A Start Date: 01/09/2004 Finish Date: 30/11/2006 Researcher: Dr Jenny Ekman Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries Phone: (02) 4348 1900 Fax: (02) 4348 1910 Email: [email protected] Objectives • The objective of this project is to improve the economic viability of the Australian wildflower industry by reducing the costs associated with export. We aim to do this by developing and testing methods of shipping wildflowers by sea. Current Progress It may be possible to save in the order of 50% of export costs by using sea instead of air freight. Several countries are already sea freighting flowers, including Israel, Chile, Guatemala, Ecuador and South Africa. While the species exported are generally different, this indicates that the economics of sea freight are viable if quality can be maintained.

We have conducted storage and vase life trials on Backhousia, Christmas bush, king protea, protea ‘duchess’ and protea ‘pink ice’. Some of the trials have included; • Vase life trials using different stem sizes • Storage at different temperatures • Storing for 0,1,2,3 or 4 weeks before assessment of vase life • Pre-storage pulsing with glucose, sucrose, ethanol, Chrysal® RVB and DETA- NO (a new formulation of nitric oxide which may be applied in the vase solution) • Pre-storage dipping in Envy®, an antitranspirant • Packing in “LifeSpan’ or LDPE film • Simulated air shipment compared to sea freight shipment

None of the pre-storage pulsing or dipping solutions tested had consistent, positive effects on storage and vase life of Christmas Bush. Nevertheless, Christmas bush could be exported by sea and arrive in satisfactory condition so long as it kept well hydrated.

Leaf blackening was a significant issue with Backhousia, and research into the cause of this disorder is continuing.

Pulsing with glucose after harvest reduced leaf blackening in “Duchess” and “Pink Ice” . However, concentrations high enough to prevent leaf blackening may damage the flower. This work will be repeated in the coming season to evaluate seasonal variation in this response.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 8 Research Report 2005

2. TO IMPROVE EXISTING PRODUCTS AND DEVELOP NEW ONES

Project Title: On-farm evaluation of grafted wildflowers for commercial cutflower production

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-231A Start Date: 01/09/2004 Finish Date: 30/05/2009 Researcher: Mr Jonathon Lidbetter Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries Phone: (02) 4348 1931 Fax: (02) 4348 1910 Email: [email protected] Objectives • Prove the benefits of grafted plants in the wildflower industry though valid on- farm financial data on the establishment of grafted perennial crops and potential cost/ benefit. • Foster the production of new product lines on farm in a profitable and sustainable manner. • Improve the viability of some currently difficult to grow or low yielding product lines and expand their suitability to a greater area within Australia. • Improve the efficiency of Australian flower growers by creating greater yield certainty and avoiding plant losses or costly repeat applications of fungicides to control root diseases. • Evaluate new graft combinations at a number of sites around Australia. Current Progress We called for expressions of interest for participation through an advertisement placed in Australian Horticulture in the September 2004 issue in conjunction with articles asking for expressions of interest in Australian Horticulture September 2004, Australasian Flowers Summer 2004, the Australian Flower Industry magazine June- Aug 2004, NSW Flower News July 2004, Floriculture News 2004, The Land - Agriculture Today Supplement November 2004 as well as a radio interview on regional ABC radio. Over thirty expressions of interest were received from QLD, WA, VIC and NSW as well as some overseas enquiries. Ten growers were selected from NSW, Vic and WA. Visits have been made to nine of the ten growers’ properties to discuss plant selection and suggested combinations for their enterprises. Discussions have already led to the identification of other graft combinations that growers are keen to have tried. Preliminary field plantings have commenced at Somersby field research station. Propagation of selections is progressing well with approximately 2000 plants ready for planting in spring 2005. New scion and rootstock collections continue to be made and new combinations tested where appropriate. Alternative methodologies and technologies continue to be evaluated in an aim to provide increased efficiency and lower the cost of production.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 9 Research Report 2005

Project Title: Flannel Flowers the Year Round: a model protected cultivated system

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-234A Start Date: 01/09/2004 Finish Date: 30/05/2007 Researcher: Dr Ross Worrall Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries Phone: (02) 4348 1900 Fax: (02) 4348 1910 Email: Objectives • To promote the development of the Australian native flower industry by providing cultural and post harvest information and new varieties that will enable flannel flowers and other Australian native cut flowers to be grown in protected cultivation. The overall aim is the development of a model production system for the protected cultivation of flannel flower and to assess other potential crops for production under a similar system. Current Progress Growers are now growing experimental crops of a year round flowering clone of flannel flower in purpose built greenhouses. Over 10,000 plants have been distributed with flowers now being marketed on both the domestic and Japanese market. Yields have been good and prices achieved excellent, especially those out of season with the locally field grown product, which mostly flowers in the spring. Plant losses have been variable, however in most cases this has been less than 5%. Most losses have been due to the root rot diseases, Pythium and Fusarium, especially when they occur together. Fusarium, in particular appears to be seed borne and trials are currently underway to eliminate or at least to provide better control of this disease. Trials examining the flannel flower’s nutrient requirements are also underway. Preliminary results indicate that large increases in yields are possible with improved mineral nutrition.

Tissue culture of clones remains slow and expensive. As an alternative elite seed based varieties are being developed and ways of improving germination are being examined in cooperation with the University of Sydney. In addition a number of promising clones selected at Gosford (in addition to those produced by Mt. Annan) are currently being multiplied for commercial trialling.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 10 Research Report 2005

Project Title: Development of Leptospermum hybrids

RIRDC Project No.: DAV-210A Start Date: 07/08/2003 Finish Date: 31/05/2005 Researcher: Mr Tony Slater Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Vic) Phone: (03) 9210 9222 Fax: (03) 9800 3521 Email: [email protected] Objectives • To monitor and evaluate Leptospermum hybrids for vase life, novel colour forms and varying flowering times. Current Progress During the 2004/05 flowering season the Leptospermum hybrids were monitored at the field site for flowering display. There are currently over 2300 hybrids growing in the field. During the flowering season, a range of hybrids flowered for the first time.

Close to 1400 hybrids were assessed for their flowering characteristics. The better forms that had not been assessed previously, were assessed for their vase life. This season 80 hybrids were selected for vase life assessment and detailed flower descriptions were taken of this material. A number exhibit a good combination of flowering display and a long vase life. The 2004/05 flowering season saw hybrids in flower from mid August until January. This included a number of white or red-pink flowers in December.

Over twenty styles of hybrids have been identified to date with attractive displays. It is highly likely that further hybrid styles could be identified from the remaining hybrid combinations that are still to flower. Over 900 young plants have not flowered to date.

A commercialisation strategy has been circulated for the release of Leptospermum cultivars. It is envisaged that calls for commercial partners will be conducted shortly to evaluate the better selections and release the superior ones for use as cut flowers and / or landscape plants.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 11 Research Report 2005

Project Title: Nutrient management of waxflower for quality and yield under adequate irrigation levels

RIRDC Project No.: DAW-107A Start Date: 01/09/2003 Finish Date: 30/08/2006 Researcher: Mr. Gerry Parlevliet Organisation: Department of Agriculture (WA) Phone: (08) 9368 3219 Fax: (08) 9368 3946 Email: [email protected] Objectives To develop a strategy for managing nutrient and irrigation levels in waxflowers with some emphasis on new hybrids to maximise growth and flower quality through: • Increased knowledge of nutrient need of waxflower grown for yield and quality. • Increased knowledge of nutrient deficiency and toxicity symptoms of waxflower. • Increased information available to waxflower producers through seminars, field days, self guided research and information notes and newsletters • Increased knowledge of salinity tolerance of waxflower. Current Progress Progress is being made to determine the nutritional requirement of new waxflower hybrids to maximising growth and quality. Changes in fertiliser and irrigation practice at trial sites on target farms has resulted in marked improvement in yield and stem length. Promotion of these results have led to other growers on surrounding farms following suit and also gaining yield improvements. Yield and quality of flowers at trial sites will be further assessed this season. Field and glasshouse trials are continuing with levels of nutrients essential for growth of waxflower being defined and methods of applying fertiliser in the field being determined. Field surveys have continued to collect information on the status of waxflower nutrition of different varieties and these results are being summarised and fertiliser recipes fine tuned. Waxflower workshops focusing on growing superior waxflower through better nutrition were held in South Australia, Victoria and Queensland July 2004 and September 2004. These workshops included presentations on nutrition followed by grower discussion of there fertiliser practices. Together with practical sessions on calculating fertiliser requirements and identifying nutrient deficiencies base on charts produced from research trials. During these visits several waxflowers farms were visited and tensiometers installed and nutrition trials set up.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 12 Research Report 2005

Project Title: Maximising root quality of waxflower tube stock suitable for field planting

RIRDC Project No.: DAW-111A Start Date: 01/10/2003 Finish Date: 30/09/2006 Researcher: Dr. Kevin Seaton Organisation: Department of Agriculture (WA) Phone: (08) 9368 3244 Fax: (08) 9367 2625 Email: Objectives To develop a method for propagating waxflower plants including new hybrids to eliminate root spiralling and consequent root failure following planting out in the field through: • Determine the characteristics of a propagation tube to prevent root spiralling. • Changes in nursery practice to better manage tube stock during propagation • Developing protocols for better management of plants pre planting out • Developing protocol for field establishment • Developing information products Current Progress The failure of root systems of wax plants particularly towards the end of summer has continues to be observed. Plants have shown necrosis of new growth and the appearance of nutrient deficiency symptoms. In many cases the occurrence of root spiralling or knotting has been documented. Laboratory trials testing out waxflower growing in tubes with different configurations have confirmed the frequent occurrence of spiralling. Plants from these trials have been planted in the field for assessment of plant performance. Guide lines are being prepared on best nursery practice during propagation and following propagation tube stock management. Further propagation trials are planned for this season. A large 300 plant field trial was planted in spring on a grower’s property using a range of plant material commercially propagated in different tube designs and conditions. These trials will be the centre of field days and extension activities. Articles on tube stock management are being prepared for industry newsletters as well as other information products. Workshops are being planned for spring this year.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 13 Research Report 2005

Project Title: Development of novel eucalypt hybrids

RIRDC Project No.: UA-67J Start Date: 01/10/2004 Finish Date: 30/05/2007 Researcher: Prof Margaret Sedgley Organisation: The University of Adelaide Phone: (08) 8303 7249 Fax: (08) 8303 7116 Email: [email protected] Objectives • To develop novel eucalypt cultivars for the cut bud and flower markets. Current Progress RIRDC project UA-52A resulted in the selection of 12 Eucalyptus forms deemed as suitable for the cut bud and flower market and one Eucalyptus form with potential for amenity horticulture (RIRDC Publication No 04/163). Propagation trials were set up to determine optimal graft propagation requirements for these 13 forms, using methodology developed during RIRDC Project UA-52A. The summer trial produced valuable information regarding scion health and grafted plant management. The Autumn trial has utilised the information gathered from the previous trial to improve propagation success. Trials will continue on a seasonal basis. Results to date indicate that there may be a genotypic and phenotypic affect on grafting success, which may lead to culling of some selected forms from the programme.

Grafted plants from these trials will used to develop PBR applications for the selected varieties. Grafted plants will also be used as stock plants for further propagation.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 14 Research Report 2005

3. TO PROVIDE PROFITABLE AND SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

Market development and commercial production of five native Project Title: foliage products

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-324A Start Date: 01/12/2004 Finish Date: 30/11/2006 Researcher: Ms Joanna Srhoj Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld) Phone: (07) 4048 4651 Fax: (07) 4092 3593 Email: [email protected] Objectives • Increased awareness of the following five foliage products in the domestic market: Stenocarpus Forest Lace, Stenocarpus Forest Gem, Lomatia fraxinifilia, Athertonia diversifolia and Grevillea baileyana. It is anticipated that increased awareness of the products will lead to increased sales. • Development of product specifications. This will assist industry to supply product that meets market requirements. • Improved and more detailed agronomic, market and economic information available to industry relevant to tropical and subtropical growing areas. • This information will increase grower confidence and subsequently attract investment in the industry from potential growers. • Increased industry size and capability both regionally intrastate. • Assessment of the susceptibility/resistance of the five foliage species to root knot nematodes and Phytophthora spp. These assessments will provide the industry with important information from which strategies can be developed to overcome disease susceptibility issues. • Emphasis on grower education and industry collaboration. Education of growers and industry collaboration is essential for the sustainable development of this industry. Current Progress The three trial sites established as part of DAQ-299A, have been fertilised and pruned as per the treatments applied. Yield has been recorded and growth rates and health ratings have been recorded. Pests and diseases have been identified. The new trial site being established at DPI&F Redlands Research Station in south- east Queensland has been prepared and is ready for planting on Monday 23rd May. Plant numbers have been determined and trial design has been generated to ensure the results can be analysed statistically. Local florists in Mareeba have participated in the first of many consumer trials that will be carried out as part of the project. Information has been collected in relation to wholesale prices, versatility of the foliages, preferred stem length and quality. The first workshop of the project was held on Saturday 5th March. The topic of the workshop was economics of production and workshop participants were given gross margin analyses information. The project leader will present project history and progress at the 5th Australian Native Flower Conference being held from 25th-28th May 2005. Yuruga Nursery is in the process of building up large numbers of mother stock and to enable this to occur, media associated with the project has been postponed to reduce the pressure on the nursery. This situation will be re-evaluated when the nursery reaches a critical mass with their mother stock. Three new growers have been introduced to the crops since December 2004.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 15 Research Report 2005

Development of synthetic seeds for clonal propagation of Project Title: Australian plants

RIRDC Project No.: KPW-2A Start Date: 01/08/2002 Finish Date: 14/07/2005 Researcher: Dr Kingsley Dixon Organisation: Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority Phone: (08) 9480 3637 Fax: (08) 9480 3641 Email: [email protected] 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 with the development of specific protocols for the stimulation of somatic embryogenesis in several target species including Macropidia fuliginosa, latifolia, Baloskion tetraphyllum and Lepidosperma squamatum. Secondary somatic embryogenesis has also been achieved for 3 of the 4 species above (except with primary somatic embryogenesis only at this stage). Successful conversion of somatic embryos into functioning plantlets has been achieved for M.fuliginosa, S.latifolia and B.tetraphyllum with all plantlets successfully transferred to soil with approximately 70-100% survival without the addition of plant growth regulators and minimum acclimatization (1-2 weeks in the glasshouse). As is the case with all species investigated, the stimulation of somatic embryos appears to be closely linked to the age of the explant and the younger the material, the more successful the process becomes. Experiments on desiccation of somatic embryos for L.squamatum and B.tetraphyllum have begun with some encouraging results. A number of treatments including abscisic acid (ABA) at 20, 50 and 100 µM and different concentrations of sugars are being investigated to determine whether they impart desiccation tolerance to the somatic embryos. A small number of somatic embryos have displayed “germination events” such as rehydration and the production of root hairs. Optimization of the desiccation protocol including the use of different drying techniques is continuing. Once the most appropriate protocol has been finalized, encapsulation of these desiccated somatic embryos will lead to “synthetic seeds”.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 16 Research Report 2005

Project Title: Speeding up the release of new varieties of Leucadendron

RIRDC Project No.: UWA-67A Start Date: 01/11/2001 Finish Date: 31/12/2005 Researcher: Dr Guijun Yan Organisation: University of Western Australia Phone: (08) 9380 1240 Fax: (08) 9380 1108 Email: [email protected] 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 on the development of DNA markers linked to sex determination has made new progress. A protocol using suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) has been developed and several clones have been identified as potential markers. They are being sequenced and further characterized. Our search for morphological markers has encountered some difficulty. The hybrids we planted at Golden West Flowers for the purpose did not grow as well as we expected and another season is needed to measure the adult traits. Therefore, the whole project has been extended till the end of 2005. Two new Leucadendron cultivars ‘Claire’s Beauty’ and ‘Ruby Red’ have been PBR’d and are being released to the industry. Cultivar Claire’s Beauty is a hybrid between L. procerum and L. salignum and is a very colorful plant with long stems. Cultivar Ruby Red is a hybrid between L. uliginosum and L. salicifolium and bears small bright red cones suitable for marketing around November and December. It is also a very vigorous plant and very productive. The project has so far produced more 23,000 hybrid seeds, evaluated 5,319 hybrid plants in the field and selected a bank of 251 hybrids as potential cultivars to release into the future.

WILDFLOWERS & NATIVE PLANTS 17 Research Report 2005