Wildflowers

BIMONTHLY NEWSLETTER

April - May 2016

In this issue: RIRDC appoints new Managing Director WFA member wins at MIFGS ISHS announces next symposia Minor use update IFEX update Herbicide MUP renewed Learn about Can I still use glyphosate? Feature : Protea ‘Pink Ice’ Biodiversity hot spots – the inside story of OCBILs Events 2016 ‘It’s Samba time’- 2016 WFA National Student Floristry How to contact WFA Competition kicks off export operations – additional inspection fee from July 1 Country of origin labelling won’t include

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‘Minotaur’. The painting’s palette of reds, pinks Wildflowers were spectacular and there in WFA member wins at MIFGS and yellows was perfectly complemented by abundance…for example: the wildflower display. This won first place! Congratulations to Richard and Cheryl Roehrich from Dakota Flower Co.

For a wrap up and photos of the growers’ displays visit the Flowers Victoria website.

Part of the striking arrangement by SMCT (Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust) which was one of three to receive the Gold Award. It featured swirls of massed Brunia, proteas, leucadendrons and Banksia accented by vivid blue Each year at the Melbourne International orchids. Flower and Garden Show, a highlight in the Great Hall is the ‘Growers’ Avenue’ where Minor use update members of Flowers Victoria provide their The last newsletter gave an update on progress products and local florists work to create for the RIRDC project that is supporting stunning installations. This year they teamed up wildflowers and 18 other smaller industries with with accommodation group Art Series Hotels up to date pesticide information and advice to and asked their growers to draw inspiration from MIFGS turned 21 this year! It’s definitely the most address disease, and weed problems. selected contemporary Australian artworks to successful annual horticultural event in the create ‘The Growers Walk of Art’. Each Southern Hemisphere with its huge variety of This project is managed by AgAware Consulting exhibiting grower paired their Australian grown floral, plant and garden displays as well as Pty Ltd. Recently you were sent the link to the flowers with one of 11 individual artworks by well demonstrations, talks, art, entertainment, and booklet also developed by this project which known artists, from John Olsen to Charles commercial booths. Floral magic erupts inside aims to help you understand the pesticide Blackman. the Great Hall of the wonderful Exhibition framework in Australia - Access to Pesticides - Building. This year was no different with An Explanation for Minor Industries Each hotel in the Art Series Hotel Group takes its Australia’s leading florists and floral designers Download it at design inspiration from its namesake artist. For creating large floral creations to wow the https://rirdc.infoservices.com.au/items/16-006 example, The Cullen in Melbourne is inspired by crowds. The florists of tomorrow were there as The information in this booklet provides the the painting ‘Minotaur’ by Australian well, battling it out in several competitions to context for this project. contemporary artist Adam Cullen. create a floral design based on a specific theme, in a limited time! Interflora hosted its We’ve now taken the first steps towards WFA member Dakota Flower Company Australia Cup and Florist of the Future providing up to date pesticide information and provided the product that florists from The Style Competition in conjunction with MIFGS. advice about managing disease, insect or Co used to complement and interpret weed problems in wildflower crops. As a start, WildFlowers Australia newsletter 2016

the surveys sent out in January identified the  What chemical group is it in? – is that a stem borer (also group 1B) pest, disease and weed management issues different chemical group to other known as Registered for the borer twig pests in . (which I will collectively call ‘pests’ throughout pesticide options, thereby allowing girdler - Xylorycta Growers also have this article) of most concern to growers. These growers to manage resistance by luteotactella) available Azamax®, are scale , bud and stem borers, alternating between chemicals from Red shouldered chlorpyrifos, indoxacarb caterpillars, root and stem rots and damping beetle (Monolepta (e.g. Avatar®)(through different chemical groups? australis) PER13789) Bacillus off, and leaf diseases.  Can one pesticide be used to manage formulations, and spinetoram (Success®) several of the key pests identified? The next step in the process was to review the 2 bud and Fipronil (chemical group methods growers were using to manage those  What does the product label actually stem borer (also 1B) state – and is the information clear or known as Registered for fig pests identified above. With this project aiming macadamia twig longicorns and to secure legal access to pesticides known to ambiguous? girdler - Xylorycta grasshoppers in other be effective against the pests identified via luteotactella) hosts. There has been much exchange of lists minor use permits, the pesticides listed in the 2 Borers alpha-cypermethrin between myself and AgAware Consulting (various species) (chemical group 3) survey returns were reviewed in detail. to check all this information and then come Registered for control of

up with a short list of up to 5 pesticide various beetles in The questions asked included: eucalypts; registered for priorities for wildflowers that the project will  Is the pesticide already registered for control of banksia now pursue further. on banksias in WA only. use on wildflower crops, and does the 3 Soft brown scale Botanical oil (oil) use pattern include the pest identified in Here is the result: (Coccus hesperidum) Registered for ‘black scale’ in olives and the survey, or is the crop and use Priority Pest (common and Proposed pesticide registered for two spotted scientific name) solution (chemical group already covered by a minor use permit? mites in ornamentals. – for resistance  If the pesticide isn’t registered or 4 Elsinoe scab (Elsinoe Captan (chemical group management) sp.) M4) permitted, are there alternatives already Other information Anthracnose Registered in ornamentals 1 Heliothis (Helicoverpa alpha-cypermethrin registered (according to crop and pest) (Colletotrichum for use on seedlings for spp.)and other moth (Chemical Group 3) that growers could use? gloeosporioides) damping off. larvae; beetles Registered for Heliothis Rust  Is the pesticide identified in the survey and other caterpillar Grey mould (Botrytis control in various crops; likely to be effective against the target cinerea) registered for control of pest – for example, is it already banksia moth on banksias 5 Leaf diseases Mancozeb (chemical registered to control that specific pest in WA only. Rust group M3) 1 Heliothis (Helicoverpa Chlorantraniliprole on another crop like ‘macadamias’ or Ink spot Registered in flowers for spp.) (chemical group 28) ‘forestry trees’? (Alternaria spp. Septoria For this pest, growers also Cercospora spp.)  Is the pesticide identified ‘broad have available Azamax®,

chlorpyrifos, indoxacarb spectrum’ in action or is it more specific 5 Leaf spots Propiconazole (chemical (e.g. Avatar®)(through (Phyllosticta spp. group 3) and less likely to adversely affect PER13789) Bacillus Mycosphaerella spp.) Propiconazole is beneficial insects? formulations, and Rusts registered for rust in spinetoram (Success®) boronias but only in 2 Waratah bud and Acephate (chemical 3 | P a g e

Tasmania and WA, where Mancozeb is a great example – the product in ‘forestry plantations, including Eucalyptus, boronia is grown for label may list the following hosts and pests: Pinus and Corymbia species’ against locusts essential oil. Boronia is grown for in Carnations – and Alternaria leaf spot and rust and grasshopper pests, and another for ‘wine grapevines’ and fig longicorn borer. Fipronil also other states. – and Botrytis leaf spot Propiconazole is has a registered use for ‘control of ants’ in registered to control other Flowers, shrubs – and Septoria leaf spot domestic situations’, in turf and ‘external areas diseases on other crops – and surrounds of domestic, commercial, public, for example various Gladioli, – and grey mould, fungal leaf spots and industrial buildings and structures’ 5 Leaf spot Prochloraz (chemical Septoria leaf spot and rust (Phyllosticta group 3) 4. Where there may be many products telopeae) Registered for – and black spot Colletotrichum only on registered with the same active ingredient, not proteas. Here ‘Flowers and shrubs’ is very generic but all labels will have the same use patterns. So, for Septoria is very specific. However, Mancozeb example there are 87 registered products What’s the next step? may be useful on flower crops for more than containing mancozeb but only some include AgAware will present the list above as the Septoria – it’s registered for a range of fungal flowers… wildflower industry pest and pesticide priorities leaf spots including rusts on other (non at the Agvet Collaborative Forum Prioritisation ornamental) hosts. Therefore, over time, the whole flower industry, Workshop for the Plant Industries Prioritisation not just wildflowers, will increasingly see fewer Workshop* which is being held in Canberra on 2. As the nursery industry applies and pays for legally available pesticides unless there is an June 8 and 9. minor use permits it needs, they are describing active process to gain access through minor the hosts as ‘nursery stock (non-food) - seedlings use permits or lobbying pesticide companies to Problems looming in the back ground & plugs, potted colour, trees & shrubs, foliage include (specific) flowers on their labels. As a result of collating and checking this , palms, grasses and trees (non- information for this project, I have found a bearing)’ and targeting the minor use permit for *Further information on the AgVet Collaborative Forum is production nurseries only. While some growers available at: www.rirdc.gov.au/agvet number of trends which mean that ‘being A fact sheet on the AgVet Collaborative Forum and process legal’ with pesticide use according to the may indeed also operate a nursery to used to date is available from the following link product label is becoming increasingly difficult. propagate plants for their plantations, this https://rirdc.infoservices.com.au/downloads/15-093 wording restricts flower growers from accessing An infographic on the Forum can be downloaded those chemicals via the nursery permits. from http://www.rirdc.gov.au/docs/default-document- 1. There is an ongoing process at the APVMA to library/agvet-infographic.pdf?sfvrsn=0 review products and their registration. There have been updates in this newsletter to let you 3. There may be no cut flower use pattern AT And some feedback on herbicides from you know when these reviews have led to a ALL on labels for newly registered products, would be helpful! product being deregistered or where the which may be from a newer chemical group Who uses these herbicides? And for what permitted uses have become more restricted. and/or have new modes of action. However, weeds? And in which crops? Do you use them However, there’s more going on. As pesticide the pesticide may be well suited for control of within the crop or along the edges? Please let labels are renewed with the APVMA, and new specific pests in wildflowers and these are Bettina know. These may join the short list for products are registered, the hosts and pests precisely the chemicals growers would want to next year. listed on the label are becoming very specific. use to better manage resistance. For example, Gallery® – isoxaben Generic terms like 'ornamentals' are no longer fipronil has no ornamental plant or flower uses Sempra® - halosulfuron-methyl on the label. But it could be very useful for Leopard® - quizalopfop-p-ethyl used. That means that pesticides that ‘used to Linuron® – linuron be legal’ no longer are, if you check the label. wildflower growers! It does have a use pattern Verdict® – haloxyfop WildFlowers Australia newsletter 2016

Herbicide MUP renewed individual governments and international PER14528 is a renewal of the previous permit organisations to recommend regulations, PER13316 which covered use of various legislation or public health intervention. herbicides in wildflower crops. It is held by New Can I still use glyphosate? Rural Industries Australia c/- AgAware As the Australian regulator, the Australian Popular herbicide glyphosate has been Consulting Pty Ltd. This minor use permit is in Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority frequently in the news of late. The debate is force from 18 November 2013 to 30 September (APVMA) published their response to this finding over its status as a carcinogenic substance. The 2017. in November 2015. International Agency for Research on Cancer http://apvma.gov.au/node/13891 (IARC), which is the specialised cancer agency It covers the following actives: of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Glyphosate – various products as listed in the APVMA is examining the full monograph to assessed glyphosate for its carcinogenicity in MUP. determine whether any regulatory action is March 2015. necessary, including whether glyphosate should

Glufosinate-ammonium – Basta Non-Selective be reviewed. APVMA has been working in IARC found that there was “limited evidence of Herbicide® plus other registered products conjunction with WHO via a joint expert carcinogenicity in humans for non-Hodgkin containing 200g/L g/L Glufosinate-ammonium taskforce to review all relevant information. The lymphoma.” Thus it has been classified as as their only active constituent. taskforce has recommended that the Joint “probably carcinogenic to humans (Group FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues 2A)”. In their report, IARC Monographs Volume Oxyfluorfen – Goal Tender Herbicide® plus (JMPR) undertake a full evaluation of 112: evaluation of five organophosphate other registered products containing: 480 g/L glyphosate to consider all adverse human insecticides and herbicides, the IARC defines oxyfluorfen as their only active constituent and health effects, including carcinogenicity. We this category as: Goal Herbicide® plus other registered products can expect this re-evaluation to be completed “...Used when there is limited evidence of containing 240 g/L oxyfluorfen as their only by May 2016. carcinogenicity in humans and sufficient active constituent. evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental The APVMA’s recommendation is that: “Based . Limited evidence means that a Paraquat & Diquat – Spray.Seed 250 on current risk assessment the label instructions positive association has been observed Herbicide® plus other registered products on all glyphosate products—when followed— between exposure to the agent and cancer containing 135 g/L paraquat present as provides adequate protection for users”. but that other explanations for the observations paraquat dichloride and 115 g/L diquat present (called chance, bias, or confounding) could as diquat dibromide as their only active Infopest advocates to: ‘always read the label not be ruled out. This category is also used constituents. first and use chemicals responsibly.’ You can when there is limited evidence of use Infopest to view all registered glyphosate carcinogenicity in humans and strong data on Simazine – Farmoz Simazine 900 WDG product labels and Safety Data Sheets. how the agent causes cancer.” Herbicide® plus other registered products as International Agency for Research on Cancer listed in the MUP. A glyphosate fact sheet is available from the

APVMA at: IARC has provided scientific evaluation based The permit is available on the APVMA website (go to http://apvma.gov.au/sites/default/files/images on a comprehensive review of the scientific https://portal.apvma.gov.au/permits and type in PER14528) /13891-glyphosate-fact-sheet-april2016.pdf and also on the WFA website in the Member’s Only section. literature. However, it is the responsibility of

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Reprinted with acknowledgement from InfoPest Newsletter why were some species of such limited these regions. One is that OCBILs also match 29 April 2016. distribution? He wasn’t the first to ask. The great the distribution of the .

botanist and explorer Joseph Dalton Hooker, Biodiversity hot spots – the inside story of OCBILs writing to his close friend Charles Darwin in 1855 The theory and experimental exploration of Keynote speaker conservation biologist Prof first described this conundrum (later called OCBIL biodiversity have revealed many Stephen Hopper made a huge impression on Hooker’s conundrum), namely that the surprises. OCBILs are places where Prof Hopper delegates at the Perth Proteaceae and New supposedly young, flat landscape of SW says ‘you need to expect the unexpected’ and Ornamental Crops Symposia. His talk covered Australia hosted exceptional ‘plant peculiarity’ ‘where the plants have something special the rich biodiversity, and the reasons for it, i.e. it supported great diversity and richness of going on’. Many processes contradict found in places like the south west of WA. species. This was an anomaly that couldn’t be accepted biological wisdom in terms of plant Known as biodiversity hotpots, these are found easily explained. reproduction, ecology, evolution and in very few places on earth (there are only 35 conservation. Understanding these patterns of them). Prof Hopper has spent 40 years unravelling the and processes also has implications for plant conundrum, studying a plant family that exhibits conservation, as well as future commercial uses similar intriguing features to Banksias, but which of Proteaceae and other plants from OCBILs. is more amenable to research. This is the Haemodoraceae, which includes kangaroo OCBIL theory incorporates an integrated series paws (the genera Anigozanthos and of hypotheses and predictions to explain the Macropidia). This family too is characterised by evolution, ecology and best conservation ‘explosive speciation’ or richness of species. approaches for the organisms that exist in those landscapes. It includes the following: The explanation for this ‘explosion’ is that the flat landscape of SW WA where these plants 1. Plants show reduced dispersibility; seed are found, is in fact one of the oldest on the production may be constrained so that planet (100 million years old), and not a ‘young vegetative propagation becomes essential. landscape’ as previously thought. You can’t There are high numbers of rare endemic

simply apply what you know about ‘young species of very localised occurrence . An understanding of why and how this landscapes’ like those of to these biodiversity came to be helps us in the landcapes. 2. Old lineages like those linking back to wildflower industry too. We can better Gondwanan heritage persist and there are long appreciate what is so special about the plants These ancient landscapes are now called ‘old, lived individuals. the industry grows and sells, why they ‘do things climatically buffered, infertile landscapes’ differently’ and why things like successful (OCBILs for short). They have been very stable, 3. To counter the natural inbreeding that would breeding and propagation can be challenging! having escaped the disturbance of successive otherwise occur in such small and local glacial/interglacial cycles. OCBILs are populations, ecological and genetic Early in his long career, Prof Hopper was prominent in southwest Australia and the mechanisms have developed to retain intrigued by wildflowers like the banksias. He Greater Cape region of South Africa, in heterozygosity, e.g. bird pollination. wondered why such biodiversity exists and why Venezuela’s Pantepui, parts of Brazil, eastern their flowers had developed such extraordinary Australia, Madagascar etc. Twelve of the 4. The climatic stability of OCBILs together with colours. And how could the plants bearing world’s biodiversity hotspots are OCBILs. There persisting semi-arid areas on their edges has them survive in such nutrient poor soils? And are many novel things about the biodiversity in favoured explosive speciation. WildFlowers Australia newsletter 2016

5. To cope with infertile soils, plants in particular species together and relating that to their Key reference: have developed special nutritional and other geographical occurrence in SW WA. DNA Stephen D Hopper (2009). OCBIL theory: towards an biological traits, e.g. ‘water foraging’ strategies. studies also have found that red and green integrated understanding of the evolution, ecology flower colouration has developed several times, and conservation of biodiversity on old, climatically buffered infertile landscapes. Plant Soil 322: 49-86. 6. Plants have evolved accentuated tolerance and is not an indication of a genetic

to salinity (in flat lands such as the Southwest relationship. DNA studies have also allowed Seeing is believing – close encounter with a ‘hot Australian Floristic Region). new species and subspecies to be spot’ distinguished. Armed with a greater understanding of 7. Plants show special vulnerability (e.g. to soil ‘biodiversity’ and OCBILs, following the disturbance and removal) but also enhanced Unusual reproductive systems have evolved to conference I visited one of the biodiversity resilience as they can persist in small cope with inbreeding in small populations – for ‘hotspots’ north of Perth for myself – now populations. example birds and small mammals like possums protected as the Lesueur National Park and have assumed a pollination role, in addition to ranked as one of the most important flora Prof Hopper has used kangaroo paws as a insects. There is strong pollinator selection for conservation reserves in WA. model system on OCBILs to explore why flower stalk height and floral features – and this

southwest Australia is so rich in plant species, is under tight genetic control. Covering almost 27,000 Ha and just 24 km and why it has unusual patterns of biological across, the area includes a wide range of evolution and ecology. Plants can cope and even thrive in low nutrient geological formations, landscapes and soil soils. But they may be unusually sensitive to types, from salt lakes, swamps, sand plains and Kangaroo paws demonstrate many of the drought, fire and soil disturbance. Yet they are remnant coastal dunes to limestone belts and hypotheses above. For example, limited resilient, surviving in small fragmented stands. ridges of laterite rock. This has allowed a huge dispersibility, with seeds mostly dropping down floral diversity to evolve and flourish and allows to the ground close to the mother plant and no As an example, Prof Hopper described what the visitor to see ‘species explosion’ on a grand animals helping them to spread. Over time this was observed at Gingin Cemetery in WA. The scale. In SW WA it’s possible to find 25 different results in narrow range endemism, which cemetery area had been managed for 50 species in a 10-by-10 metre square. At Lesueur Wikipedia defines as ‘the ecological state of a years by regular burning, and supported a rich the record is 110 different species in the 10 M species being unique to a defined geographic diversity of local flora. Then the site was levelled square! location, such as an island, nation, country or with the top 5-10 cm of soil removed and

other defined zone, or habitat type’. 1 In burning ceased. The diversity disappeared In total over 900 species have been identified cultivation, the good news is that plants from ‘overnight’ and invasive weeds took over as the which comprise 10% of the state’s known flora. OCBILs are unlikely to become weeds due to regenerative capacity of the seed bank in the Included are 7 species of declared rare flora their limited seed dispersal mechanisms. soil, stimulated by burning, had been removed. and 9 taxa2 found only here. Another 111 taxa This is the opposite of what would happen in a are endemic to the region and 81 are at their DNA sequencing has allowed the construction European system. northern or southern limits. There are acacias, of a taxonomic tree of the different kangaroo hibbertias, leschenaultias, melaleucas, several paw species, grouping genetically related Prepared by Bettina Gollnow from Prof Hopper’s conference presentation. 2 Wikipedia defines a taxon as a group of one or more 1 In contrast, organisms that are indigenous to a place are populations of an organism or organisms seen by not endemic to it if they are also found elsewhere. taxonomists to form a unit. 7 | P a g e

different kangaroo paws and many different Along with the diverse flora, Lesueur supports a students must demonstrate the design orchids. There is low heathland and along the diversity of insects (including 29 species of jewel techniques of colour, form and balance they creeklines there are woodlands of wandoo, beetles which are all protected), reptiles, birds have learned. acacia and redgum. Mt Lesueur itself is a 300 M and mammals. high circular mesa with its own collection of This competition brings the Australian wildflower locally endemic plants. industry and the floristry colleges together to educate trainee florists to explore the unique The park website range of Australian and South African (https://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park/lesueur) wildflowers. has a link to the Atlas of Living Australia which allows you to see all the species identified in the By exploring the versatility and beauty of park, according to botanical and common Australian grown wildflowers and foliages, name, and also where they are located. That’s learning about their names and distinctive how I found that a species of flannel flower also features and incorporating them into interesting occurs there – Actinotus leucocephalus. floristry arrangements, a new world of floristry Conservation management includes a strong opportunities opens up. Flowering peaks in late winter and spring. It’s focus on keeping out dieback caused by interesting that as you drive through the park, Phytophthora spp. Visitors are encouraged to We are pleased to introduce the following you will see the same flower colours repeated stay on the tarred roads and pathways, and companies as sponsors for this year’s as splashes of cream, yellow, pink, red, brown, boot cleaning stations (like the one above) are competition. We welcome aboard new purple and blue, but each time you take a dotted around the park. You could adapt this sponsors and WFA members the Wildflower closer look, it’s a completely different plant. set up for your plantation. Industry Network NSW Inc., Helix Australia and Dakota Flower Company, and the return of the ‘It’s Samba time’ International Protea Association. 2016 WFA National Student Floristry Competition kicks off Platinum Students entering the competition this year will East Coast Wildflowers is one of Australia's be inspired by the Rio Olympics. They will design leading suppliers of Australian Native and South a 'Welcome to Rio sheaf'. In developing their African Wildflowers, supplying high quality designs, students may refer to a particular seasonal flowers and foliages all year round. Olympic sport or athlete, or may reflect on the They grow a huge range of products and also

spirit of Olympics competition or something source and supply from other leading growers about Rio, the 2016 Olympics host city. and wild product harvesters from across Australia. Based at the Sydney Flower Market, The design is to be a hand tied presentation their range includes many sought after and sheaf. This is to be presented to one of our unusual products not commonly available. Australian athletes, to encourage them to do http://www.eastcoastwildflowers.com.au/avail their best, on the stage (or podium) or sent as a ability_order.htm gift. The stems must be wrapped or bound as decorative wrapping or binding is important as Flower Association of Queensland (FAQI) /Australian Flower Industry is a non-profit

a design element. In making their sheaf, WildFlowers Australia newsletter 2016

organisation based in Brisbane. FAQI supports Silver The International Protea Association (IPA) was the sustainable future growth of the The Australian Flower Investment Company formed in Melbourne in 1981, after a meeting Queensland cut flower and foliage industry, (AFIC) has been supplying Native Flower and hosted by the late Peter Mathews of and also supports the broader national industry. Foliage products to the Australian wholesale Proteaflora Nurseries. The IPA represents all links The team at FAQI publish the app Flower and flower market for the past four years. Based in in the Value Chain of global commercial Australian Flower Industry (AFI) magazine both Western Victoria and Eastern South protea production. The IPA offers promoting the latest information to address the Australia, AFIC currently grows over 100 different researchers, propagators, producers, marketers, needs of all businesses. lines of products primarily aimed at supplying breeders and educators an open forum of their native bouquet production. communication and friendship to promote and AFI will be hosting reports on the competition Follow us on facebook at: expand the industry for the benefit of all. during the year; in addition, each competition www.facebook.com/AustralianFlowerIC Web: http://www.ipa-protea.org/ winner will receive a 12 month subscription to the magazine. Civil and Structural Engineering Design Services Premium Greens Australia is the sales and Web: http://www.flowersqueensland.asn.au/ Pty Ltd are based in Sydney and provide a wide marketing arm of the Cedar Hill Group based www.australianflowerindustry.com.au range of services to cover all your Engineering, on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia. Design and Construction requirements. They We specialise in Australian native flowers and Gold are also strongly committed to supporting foliage for both export and domestic Freshflowers.com.au is Australia's no.1 trainee florists. markets. Our products are world renowned destination to buy flowers online. We have an Web: www.civilandstructural.com.au for freshness, quality and their unique beauty. extensive network of growers where we are We have been operating over 20 years in the able to source the highest quality of flowers – Helix Australia is the world leader in the business of producing top quality native ensuring fresh, quality supply all year round and breeding, marketing and licensing of new and Australian flowers and foliage. Our focus is on delivering Australia’s best floral gifts with 100% improved varieties of Waxflower for both cut the production and export of unique cut native satisfaction guaranteed. flower and landscape use. Waxflower is one of foliage and flowers from our own facilities the major filler flowers used by discerning florists throughout Queensland. Special offer in conjunction with the globally and Helix Australia’s varieties aim to Web: www.premiumgreensaustralia.com competition! excite both florist and consumer alike. Our varieties have been selected based on flower Wildflower Industry Network NSW Inc. aims to Freshflowers.com.au is offering a 10% size, unique colours, extended vase life and also grow and promote the Wildflower Industry in discount on orders placed via their early and late flowering time. NSW, which is based on Australian native website while the competition is Web: http://www.helixaustralia.com.au/ flowers and foliage, as well as selections from underway (April to October 2016). This South African Proteaceae. It supports the offer is available to WFA members, As part of this sponsorship, the first three interests of commercial growers and others with floristry students and their families. Use colleges to submit completed student entry a commercial interest in wildflowers throughout the code word ‘wildflowers’ when forms to the coordinator, Del Thomas, by the NSW by fostering exchange of commercial and ordering at www.freshflowers.com.au due date will receive a box of 25 bunches of technical information; initiating technical Helix waxflower selections for their students to research and supporting collective action on incorporate into their entries. industry issues. WIN has 2 active groups, one incorporating the greater Sydney area 9 | P a g e

(including the Central Coast, Blue Mountains questions regarding this issue please visit their RIRDC appoints new Managing Director and extending to the South Coast) and one website or email their Cost Recovery unit. The Board of RIRDC has appointed Mr John located on the NSW mid north coast. (Reprinted with acknowledgement from FAQI e news Harvey as the Corporation’s Managing Director. For more information, please contact Frank March 2016) Mr Harvey takes over the role of Managing

Allatt, [email protected] Country of origin labelling won’t include flowers Director from Mr Craig Burns, who served in that position for the past six years. Mr Harvey will In the last newsletter I indicated that WFA had Bronze commence with RIRDC on the 3rd of May 2016. joined with the Australian Flower Council and Dakota Flower Company are growers and FAQI in sending a consolidated flower industry wholesalers distributing at the Melbourne Mr Harvey’s long experience in the agricultural response to the Federal Government during the wholesale flower market and delivering daily sector and proven leadership skills will ensure Country of Origin Labelling consultation throughout Melbourne. The business was RIRDC’s quality work and high standing process. Shane Holborn, from FAQI, who created by Richard and Cheryl Roehrich, who amongst our stakeholders will continue under coordinated this activity has just received the are passionate about supplying flowers and his management. following reply to our submission: foliage to the to the highest of standards. Their intimate knowledge of flowers is We understand that fresh flowers are not currently subject to Mr Harvey commenced his career in agriculture the result of their 35 years of experience in the mandatory country of origin labelling. as a soil conservationist and extension flower trade. They have grown flowers for over agronomist with the Queensland Department of 22 years and still continue to expand their The consultation process on the Government’s proposed Primary Industries. He joined the Grains product range today. reforms is now over. Following careful consideration of all the Research and Development Corporation submissions, the Government submitted its final proposals and a (GRDC) in 1997, and there held several positions Dakota supply an extensive range of flora Decision RIS to the Australian Consumer Affairs Forum (CAF). including as Program Manager, Farming In its final proposals, the Government confirmed it did not including orchids, roses, David Austin roses, intend to extend the existing scope of mandatory country of Systems; became an Executive Manager in tropical foliages, lilies and Australian and South origin labelling. However, it will be made clear through changes 2001, and Managing Director and CEO in 2011. African natives. to the country of origin safe harbour defences in the Australian Web: www.dakotaflowercompany.com.au Consumer Law that imported flowers which just undergo minor ISHS announces next symposia processes like cutting and presenting for sale here will not The XIII International Protea Research qualify for a ‘made in Australia’ claim. Plant export operations – additional inspection Symposium will take place in Stellenbosch, fee from July 1 South Africa on 3-6 September 2017. A Plant Export Operations Additional Inspection On 31 March 2016, the CAF supported the Commonwealth Government’s proposals for the country of origin labelling The IX International Symposium on New fee for all job functions will commence on 1 July reform. The CAF Communique can be accessed at: Ornamental Crops is scheduled for 2019 in 2016. The Additional Inspection fee applies http://consumerlaw.gov.au/communiques/meeting-8-2/. Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. where there is an approved job function that could be undertaken by an approved industry The Government is currently working to finalise the proposed IFEX update authorised officer but instead a departmental legislation, and the details will be released once it becomes law. Be the "Future Best Sellers" by winning the IFEX officer is requested to provide the service. The Flower Awards! The organisers have been in additional inspection fee is $75.00 per 15 Please do not hesitate to contact us again should you have touch with details of this year’s IFEX Flower minutes (or part thereof). The implementation further questions. Awards. This is a special event where exhibitors date for charging of the additional inspection can apply for FREE to promote their varieties. fee for non-protocol job functions has been Kind regards delayed to 1 July 2016. If you have any How the award is conducted: Country of Origin Labelling Taskforce Categories: Overseas Growers, Cut Flower and WildFlowers Australia newsletter 2016

Potted Flower Venue: Makuhari Messe, Japan • Producing plants for display, education and Number of Entries: 150 varieties for all categories Organised by: Reed Exhibitions Japan Ltd. reintroduction (first come, first served). Each participant can Web: http://www.ifex.jp/en/ enter 5 varieties per category. The show brochure is available at Project summary: Judges: Leading flower shop owners and http://www.ifex.jp/en/doc/BRC16/ , known as Geebungs in eastern designers. Australia, are notoriously difficult to grow and Learn about Persoonias many are rare or endangered. One example is Advantages of entering include: At the next meeting of the Wildflower industry the critically endangered North Rothbury 1. Special display during the show. Network of NSW (WIN), the focus will be on Persoonia (P. pauciflora). Several species also All varieties will be displayed in a special area Persoonias or Geebungs. have potential for horticultural development. At during the show. The space will attract the Venue: Australian Botanic Garden, Mount the Australian PlantBank, we are focussing on attention of flower industry professionals such as Annan, Narellan Road, Mount Annan. the reproductive biology of eastern Australian flower shop owners, importers, wholesalers and Celebrating 200 years of Sydney Botanic Persoonias by developing techniques to auction markets as well as growers who visit the Gardens, Australia’s oldest scientific institution. improve germination success. Plants are also show. being propagated from cuttings and tissue Host: Dr Nathan Emery culture as an alternative to seed germination. 2. Wide promotion in the lead up to the show. Re-establishment (‘translocation’) of plants is Participating varieties will be massively What to bring: morning tea, cup and your lunch also being examined. This program will provide promoted in the Japanese flower industry information to growers and researchers on how before the show. Program: best to produce and conserve the species. 10.30 am: Arrive – tea /coffee. Meet at the 3. Entrants can obtain direct comments from café/restaurant – Melaleuca House. Please RSVP to Gordon Meiklejohn – mobile IFEX visitors. 11.00 am: General Meeting 0407 104 464; email: [email protected] Show Management will survey IFEX visitors 11.30 am: Guest speaker - Topic – Persoonia, about the varieties and their comments will be see introductory article below. Feature flower: Protea ‘Pink Ice’ shared with the participants after the show. 12.30 pm: Lunch - Please bring your own. 1.30 pm: Visit to Plant Bank. Last year, the grand winner of the Potted Flower 3.00 pm: Finish Category was promoted on Japanese TV news, and the Overseas Grower Category was Persoonia perplexities: seed conservation featured on the cover of a gift magazine. research of eastern Australian Geebungs Project aims: For more information/ application form, visit the • Investigating the requirements for optimal website: http://www.ifex.jp/en/To- seed storage, germination and propagation Exhibit/award/ • Determining if Persoonia species can be propagated from plant cuttings and tissue Show details: culture IFEX (13th International Flower Expo ) • Understanding the factors that can affect Dates: October 12 - 14, 2016 seed quality Botanical name: Protea neriifolia  P. susannae 11 | P a g e

disinfestation is important, especially for export Origin: ‘Pink Ice’ was developed in Australia. Leaf blackening following harvest can be a product. Most proteas originate from South Africa. major problem. Its severity varies between cultivars - it can occur within 3–5 days of harvest Flowering season: February to August, There are a number of hybrids and selections and greatly reduces visual appeal and vase depending on location. with similar requirements - such as ‘Special Pink life. Ice’, ‘Candy’ and ‘Frosted Fire’ - and selected Typical vase life: 7-14 days. hybrids and cultivars of P. neriifolia (mink The exact mechanism of leaf blackening is still protea) like ‘Cream Mink’. not fully understood, but it results from the cut Sold as single stems and bunches: Stems 70+ stem drawing on the carbohydrate reserves in and 60 cm in length are marketed singly. 50 cm Description: The flower head consists of many the to supply sugar in order to complete stems and shorter are generally bunched in 3s florets crowded onto the central dome and the development of the flower head. This leads or 5s, depending on customer requirements; surrounded by silvery pink bracts. The bracts are to oxidation and thus darkening of phenols small headed stems of 40 cm can be sold on grouped in several tiers, with short, scaly outer within the leaves. It occurs more quickly in the domestic market. rows and larger, more attractive inner rows. The warmer climates and in proteas stored at warm bracts surround a buff-coloured centre which is temperatures and under low light conditions. Stems within a bunch should be approximately dark burgundy at the tip. the same diameter, with the ends aligned Some recommend that in hot weather, plants together. This protea is a major cut flower, grown in many should be watered the night before picking, countries. Its success is due to its vigorous and that flowers be picked late in the day, after Bunches of ‘Pink Ice’ need to be firmly tied near growth habit, long flowering season and they have had time to accumulate the base and again loosely 2/3 of the way up tolerance to disease. carbohydrates. the bunch.

Cultivation notes: Careful postharvest handling will help reduce or When to harvest: When the flower head is fully Optimum growth and production of proteas prevent leaf blackening. Picking flowers when formed and at final size, and the bracts occur in deep, well drained soils with a pH of the foliage is dry, cooling them quickly after opening evenly to reveal the central dome. 5.0–6.5 and low phosphorus (P) availability. harvest and storing them at 2–4 °C will help. Harvest when the top opening is 2 cm or the Species vary in their tolerance to soil moisture Keeping cut stems under continuous bright light size of a 5-cent piece (export markets) to 2.5 levels, frost, humidity and soil pH. may also help reduce its incidence. cm or the size of a 10-cent piece (domestic markets). Most proteas start producing flowers within 2 to Protea flowers are rich in nectar and pollen, 5 years of planting, with peak production and as a result attract many insects. Picking The flower mass (dome) is soft and the top or achieved between years 5 and 8, depending flowers while the opening is still small reduces ‘nose’ protruding through opening. on the species. Canopy management to risk of insects present within the flower head. develop a strong framework from the start is When flowers are picked more open, insects The flower head must be well coloured and important to maximise quality and yield. and birds may have already damaged the typical for the selection. symmetry of the central domed flower mass. Remove side shoots (bypass growth) or Flower size should be proportional to stem secondary blooms early and well before A preharvest spray to chase out insects and length – market smaller heads on shorter stems. harvest or there will be ugly scars where they spiders may assist. Postharvest insect Aim for stems of pencil thickness. have been cut off. WildFlowers Australia newsletter 2016

Ensure the flower head follows in a straight line from the stem (and is not offset from the stem at Sell quickly. Leaf blackening is likely to be a June 20-22 The International Floriculture Expo, >15°); and that it is not hidden by leaves. greater problem with storage. Chicago, USA. The IFE is an annual event and considered to be North America’s leading Postharvest treatment: Glucose pulsing is Ethylene susceptibility: ‘Pink Ice’ is not ethylene industry trade event. recommended to minimise leaf blackening. sensitive. See http://www.floriexpo.com/about/ Hold stems in clean potable water containing a Adapted with acknowledgement from the Australian registered biocide for at least 4 hours before Wildflower Quality Specification for Protea ’Pink Ice’, October 12-14 IFEX – Japan’s largest flower pulsing. To avoid blackening, don’t let the November 2010. Available to download or purchase industry trade show. foliage get wet. at https://rirdc.infoservices.com.au/items/10-051 Venue: Makuhari Messe, Japan.

See http://www.ifex.jp/en/ Events 2016 Glucose pulses markedly reduce leaf May 28 Wildflower industry Network of NSW blackening of some proteas, including ‘Pink Ice’ How to contact WFA meeting and related cultivars. Sucrose does not have Bettina Gollnow (Communications and Extension Manager): this effect. Glucose pulses of 3%–5% (30–50 g/L) Saturday, 28th May, 2016 [email protected] Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan, Mobile: +61 4 3426 5817/0434 265 817 for 24 hours at 18 °C have been effective. Narellan Road, Mount Annan. Higher concentrations, treatment times or Secretariat (Wendy Ketter) 10.30am to 3.00 pm. Meet at the temperatures can cause damage. P.O. Box 327 café/restaurant – Melaleuca House. Cleveland Qld 4163 RSVP to Gordon Meiklejohn – mobile Phone: 07 3821 3350 Check whether glucose reduces leaf 0407 104 464; email: [email protected] Fax: 07 3286 3094 blackening of your proteas, and what the

optimum dose is, by doing your own trials. It’s The advice provided in this newsletter is intended as a source of June 8 Inaugural Agri Investor Australia Forum not known whether glucose increases the rate information only. WildFlowers Australia Ltd does not guarantee that 2016 of flower opening and nectar production. the newsletter is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for Grand Hyatt, Melbourne. your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for error,

For more information on this event, contact loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any Add a biocide and prepare fresh pulsing information in this communication. solution for each batch. Pulse in a cool room if Andrew Wolff at [email protected] the weather is very hot. Draft program available at: This newsletter is an activity funded by the RIRDC project PRJ-009045 Capacity Building and Communications for the https://www.agriinvestor.com/event/australia- forum/ Wildflower industry stage 2. It has been compiled by Bettina Tips for florists: Avoid poorly coloured, Gollnow, the Communications & Extension Manager, also

damaged, deformed, asymmetrical or dull funded by this project. June 14-16 GreenTech . The flower heads and blooms that are too open. organisers are promoting this event as the Make sure the bracts are undamaged. Avoid global meeting place for all professionals stems with leaf blackening or bypass shoots at involved in technology – a platform the base of the flower head. to network, exchange ideas and do business. Recut stems and place into fresh water Details: http://www.greentech.nl/amsterdam/ containing a registered biocide.

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