Assessment of tomato and capsicum cultivars and production techniques for export to Japan and Taiwan and demonstration of IPM of Botrytis cinerea for local and export crops

Background: The granting of Tobacco Blue Mould (TBM) area freedom for Tasmania in 1996 presented Tasmanian Greenhouse Tomato & Vegetable Growers with the opportunity to export to Japan a range of solanaceous vegetables. TGTVGA, Field Fresh Tasmania and DPIWE worked together to develop a joint industry/HRDC funded project to investigate this opportunity.

Objectives: To investigate a range of cultivars and production techniques and commence a planned development of a greenhouse vegetable export industry. To demonstrate that controlling the greenhouse environment eliminates the need for fungicide applications to control Botrytis cinerea thus enhancing Tasmania's "Clean & Green" image.

Work undertaken to date: 1997/98 - initial screening trials and test marketing of a range of greenhouse tomato, capsicum and eggplant cultivars. First stage of IPM control of Botrytis cinerea demonstrated. Most promising cultivars selected and second year trials agreed. 1998/99 - second year trials completed. 1999/2000 - third year trials completed.

Results to Date: Greenhouse capsicums have been grown to world's best practice yield and quality in a leased greenhouse with environmental controls. Initial IPM of Botrytis cinerea confirmed NZ experience that controlling the greenhouse environment eliminates the disease. Feedback from potential Japanese buyers has been very positive. However, an influx of Korean capsicums has depressed the price for export capsicums. Market opportunities exist for greenhouse tomatoes and capsicums on mainland Australia. Draft greenhouse capsicum production manual, investors guide, case study and final report have been prepared.

Technology Transfer Activities and Plans: A communication plan based on industry partnering and facilitation has been developed.