Commercial Vegetable Growing
This commentary examines vegetable production in the South Auckland and Waikato regions. It covers the main crop types produced on commercially intensive vegetable properties.
The commentary covers the growing season from July 2002 to June 2003.
Key Points
- Despite the drier, cooler conditions, growers commented that at times wetness impacted significantly on farm management. This led to the inability to plant to schedule and a subsequent shortage of crops in spring.
- The rapid spread of the lettuce aphid has surprised and alarmed growers. Despite voluntary controls, the aphid has spread throughout the country.
- The merger of two large supermarket chains will lead to significant restructuring in the vegetable industry.
- The profitability of onion production has lifted markedly as a result of improved marketable yields and export prices.
- Potato growers comment that quarantine restrictions are constraining their ability to meet the more exacting quality specifications sought by their customers, particularly processors.
- The proposed carbon emissions charge has the potential to impact significantly on the profitability of greenhouse vegetable production.
- The availability and affordability of skilled workers is impacting on vegetable production.
Contact for Enquiries
Farm Monitoring Programme Manager
Monitoring and Evaluation
MAF Policy
PO Box 2526
Wellington
NEW ZEALAND
Phone: +64 4 894 0623
Fax: +64 4 894 0741
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