Nursery Production Farm Management System | - Nursery...

8 t h E d i t i o n 2 0 1 9

Nursery Industry Accreditation Scheme Australia

NIASA BEST MANAGEMENT PRACT ICE GUIDEL INES

F O R

N U R S E R Y P R O D U C T I O N G R O W I N G M E D I A S U P P L Y A N D

G R E E N L I F E M A R K E T

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FOREWORD

NIASA Best Management Practice Guidelines 8th edition 2019 2

FOREWORD

FOREWORD

The Nursery Industry Accreditation Scheme Australia (NIASA) provides a blueprint for the professional management of production nurseries, growing media suppliers and greenlife market businesses. It has provided these businesses with a standard for professionalism and best management practice since 1994.

NIASA operates under national guidelines that are reviewed annually to ensure they cover relevant and current production and environmental issues. The program is governed and administered by Greenlife Industry Australia (GIA) and forms the keystone of the Australian Plant Production Standard (APPS).

The APPS continues to support leading businesses with their NIASA accreditation; ensuring products have been produced under industry-recognised best management practices. The result is consistently vigorous, healthy crops and growing media produced under defined specifications, independently audited and available from professional and sustainable plant production businesses.

APPS staff and consultants/advisors are professionally trained and can advise on relevant technical and system improvements for production nurseries, growing media suppliers and greenlife market businesses. Such independent advice, coupled with industry-proven best management practices, provides valuable help in dealing with production efficiency, government regulations and technological advancement.

The NIASA Best Management Practice Guidelines provide the standard for the setup and operation of professional production nurseries, growing media suppliers and greenlife market businesses under industry best management practice principles. These guidelines, along with the support of Technical Advisors, are practical in their advice for businesses due to them having been designed to improve plant production in container cropping systems, growing media production and greenlife market plant management.

The 2019 update (Edition 8) has seen a revision of the guidelines to include new appendices for best practice Macadamia Nursery Stock Specification and Banana Nursery Stock specifications joining the 2018 additions of Landscape Tree Stock Specification and Avocado Nursery Stock Specification.

Over 3,000 copies of previous editions of these guidelines have been distributed throughout Australia and internationally. The Guidelines are now only available electronically through GIA at http://nurseryproductionfms.com.au.

The NIASA Best Management Practice Guidelines are a valuable business improvement tool and we recommend the manual to all production nurseries, growing media suppliers and greenlife markets.

Glenn Fenton

President Greenlife Industry Australia

December 2019

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS


ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This edition (Edition 8 – 2019) acknowledges the continual hard work of all involved in updating these guidelines.

Updated NIASA BMP Guidelines and review of content by Grant Telford (Biosecurity Project Officer - GIA), John McDonald (National Biosecurity Manager – GIA) and Chris O'Connor (Program Manager - GIA).

The development and inclusion of the new NIASA Macadamia Nursery Stock Specification Appendix in this Edition was funded by Hort Innovation under project MC17001, using the Macadamia Industry research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. It was produced by Grant Telford and Dr Chris Searle (MacAvo Consulting) in consultation with John McDonald (GIA), Leoni Kojetin (Australian Macadamia Society), Johan Jacobs (Grower and consultant), Kim Wilson (Consultant and SIAP member), Dr John Wilkie (Principal Horticulturist, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries), Dr Anthony Kachenko (Hort Innovation) and Dr Catherine Nock (Southern Cross Plant Science, Southern Cross University).

The development and inclusion of the new NIASA Banana Nursery Stock Specification Appendix in this Edition was funded by Hort Innovation under project BA14014, using the Banana Industry research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. It was produced by Grant Telford (Biosecurity Solutions Australia Pty Ltd) in consultation with John McDonald, Stephen Lowe (QLD grower and Australian Banana Growers Council Chair), Stephen Spear (NSW grower and Australian Banana Growers Council Board Director), Steve Lavis (QBAN accredited tissue culture lab and nursery), Dr Rosie Godwin (Australian Banana Growers Council R&D Manager), Stuart Lindsay, Sharon Hamill, Dr Kathy Crew, Dr John Thomas and Gary Artlett (QLD Department of Agriculture and Fisheries), and Dr Alison Seyb (NSW Department of Primary Industries).

Thank you to everyone who has assisted the development of these and previous editions of the NIASA Best Management Practice Guidelines and congratulations to all who implement them.

The original NIASA guidelines were published in 1994 edited by Keith Bodman, then Senior Pathologist with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries followed by the second edition in 1997, edited by Ian Atkinson, then National Industry Development Officer NIAA. The 2003 edition was edited by Richard Stephens and had input from many people including current and previous national NIASA committee members; Keith Bodman, Wayne Parr, Robert Harrison, Brent Tallis, Nick Smart, Jerry Holder, Fergus Higson, and David Mathews; current and past Nursery Industry Development Officers including; Edda Keskula, Sandy Pate, Robert Chin, Michael Danelon, John McDonald, Anne Frodsham, Angela Monks, Kath Laurie, Peter Jolly, Phil Wood, Megan Connelly and Ian Atkinson; and State Accreditation & Certification Committee members.

The 2005 edition was edited by Warwick Scherf with input from many people including: John McDonald, Rebecca Dawson, Edda Keskula and Michael Danelon.

The 2010 and 2013 editions were edited by Dr. Anthony Kachenko with significant input from John McDonald in the updating of Appendix 1 and the development of the Growing Media Supplier checklist in 2013.

The 2016 Edition was edited by John McDonald with input from Chris O’Connor, Lex McMullin, Steve Hart and Grant Dalwood with significant input into the development of the NIASA Freight and

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS


REVISION GUIDE

Logistics Section written by Grant Dalwood and Dr. Anthony Kachenko with input from the then National Accreditation & Certification Committee (NACC).

The 2017 NIASA BMP Guidelines were revised and updated by Grant Telford, John McDonald and Chris O'Connor. The development and inclusion of the new NIASA Avocado High Health Production Appendix in this Edition was funded by Hort Innovation under project AV16013, using the Avocado Industry research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. It was produced by Grant Telford with significant input from John McDonald, Dr Andrew Manners (Senior Entomologist, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries), Dr Ken Pegg (Emeritus Plant Pathologist, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries), John Tyas (Avocados Australia Ltd), and Avocado Nursery Voluntary Accreditation Scheme (ANVAS) accredited production nurseries. This Edition also included a new Appendix that provides guidance on Tree Stock Specifications for landscape trees developed by Chris O'Conner, and guidance developed by Grant Telford in addressing new Heavy Vehicle National Law and associated Chain of Responsibility obligations in an expanded Freight and Logistics Appendix.

Published by Greenlife Industry Australia, Sydney, 2019.

ISBN 978-0-6484276-3-6 © Greenlife Industry Australia Ltd 2019.

Unauthorised distribution of this publication is not permitted.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of contents, Greenlife Industry Australia Ltd accepts no liability for the information.

These guidelines have been funded by Hort Innovation using the nursery industry levy and matched funds from the Australian Government.

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REVISION GUIDE


REVISION GUIDE

REVISION GUIDE

Please note the following revisions included within this Edition of the NIASA Guidelines:

New sections

• APPENDIX 15 MACADAMIA NURSERY STOCK SPECIFICATION. This appendix has been added to provide guidance in the production of quality macadamia nursery stock and allows a NIASA accredited nursery to implement additional practices and apply for and gain NIASA Macadamia Nursery Stock Specification Accreditation.

• APPENDIX 16 BANANA NURSERY STOCK SPECIFICATION. This appendix has been added to provide guidance in the production of banana plants and allows a NIASA accredited business to implement additional practices and apply for and gain NIASA Banana Nursery Stock Specification Accreditation.

All sections

• General formatting and minor edits related to new sections.

• Where references are made to other sections of the Guidelines, or external resources, links to those sections or resources have been added.

Other

• APPENDIX 13, formerly named REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH HEALTH AVOCADO PRODUCTION, now re-named AVOCADO NURSERY STOCK SPECIFICATION. Other relevant changes made to reflect the new title.

• References are now made to activity undertaken under the GIA Australian Plant Production Standard (APPS) replacing the term Nursery Production Farm Management System.

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ACCREDITATION IN THE NURSERY INDUSTRY




Nursery Industry Accreditation Scheme Australia (NIASA) is a national scheme governed, administered, managed and promoted by Greenlife Industry Australia (GIA). NIASA is the cornerstone of the Australian Plant Production Standard (APPS) and provides a set of guidelines that ensures a plant production business operates according to industry best management practice and commits to a continuous improvement cycle (Plan, Do, Check & Review).

The GIA, through NIASA, provides specialist Best Management Practice (BMP) advice and accreditation services to:

• Nursery Production Businesses.

• Growing Media Suppliers.

• Greenlife Marketers.

NIASA also supports nursery production in specialised areas. This Edition includes BMP advice for production of tree stock for landscape use, and production of high-quality avocado, macadamia and banana nursery stock for fruit and nut production.

Building onto NIASA under the APPS is EcoHort, the industry specific Environmental Management System (EMS), that provides businesses with a systematic approach to assess their environmental and natural resource management responsibilities as part of their daily business management. BioSecure HACCP, the industry specific on-farm biosecurity module, is also available for businesses who have successfully gained NIASA Accreditation.

Together, NIASA, EcoHort and BioSecure HACCP form the APPS designed for businesses to assist them in planning for the future through risk analysis and action planning.

For more information on NIASA, EcoHort, or BioSecure HACCP contact GIA on email: [email protected] or visit www.nurseryproductionfms.com.au or https://www.greenlifeindustry.com.au.

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CONTENTS

CONTENTS FOREWORD ............................................................................................................................................ 2

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ......................................................................................................................... 3

REVISION GUIDE .................................................................................................................................... 5

ACCREDITATION IN THE NURSERY INDUSTRY .................................................................................. 6

INTRODUCTION TO NIASA ................................................................................................................. 16

1 CROP HYGIENE ................................................................................................................................. 17

1.1 The prevention of root diseases .................................................................................................................................... 17

1.1.1 Water ........................................................................................................................................................................... 17

1.1.2 Growing media/propagating media ............................................................................................................... 20

1.1.3 Motherstock plants ................................................................................................................................................ 23

1.1.4 Working surfaces .................................................................................................................................................... 24

1.1.5 Tools ............................................................................................................................................................................ 24

1.1.6 Footwear .................................................................................................................................................................... 24

1.1.7 Vehicles ...................................................................................................................................................................... 25

1.1.8 Access.......................................................................................................................................................................... 25

1.1.9 Removal of plant and growing media wastes ............................................................................................. 25

1.1.10 Floors and pathways ........................................................................................................................................... 25

1.1.11 Quarantine areas .................................................................................................................................................. 26

1.1.12 Potting facilities .................................................................................................................................................... 27

1.1.13 Plant handling ....................................................................................................................................................... 27

1.1.14 Washing facilities ................................................................................................................................................. 27

1.1.15 Containers ............................................................................................................................................................... 28

1.1.16 Beds and benching .............................................................................................................................................. 28

1.1.17 In-ground production ........................................................................................................................................ 31

1.2 Disease Pest and Weed Control .................................................................................................................................... 32

1.2.1 Weed control............................................................................................................................................................ 32

1.2.2 Insects and other pests, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) .............................................................. 32

1.2.3 The prevention and control of pathogens, other than those causing root and crown rots ..... 34

1.2.4 Crop protection programs in general ............................................................................................................ 34

2 CROP MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ................................................................................................... 37

2.1 Water, irrigation and humidity....................................................................................................................................... 37

2.2 Wind control ......................................................................................................................................................................... 39

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2.3 Light .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 39

2.4 Temperature .......................................................................................................................................................................... 40

2.5 Plant nutrition and fertilising .......................................................................................................................................... 40

2.6 Structures and production areas ................................................................................................................................... 41

2.7 Root binding ......................................................................................................................................................................... 41

3 GENERAL SITE MANAGEMENT ........................................................................................................ 43

3.1 Professional image and appearance ........................................................................................................................... 43

3.2 Staff facilities and safety measures .............................................................................................................................. 44

3.3 Training and continuous improvement ...................................................................................................................... 44

3.4 Environmental performance ........................................................................................................................................... 45

3.5 Product quality and meeting customer expectations ........................................................................................... 45

4 WATER MANAGEMENT ................................................................................................................... 47

4.1 Efficient irrigation ................................................................................................................................................................ 47

4.1.1 Top irrigation ........................................................................................................................................................... 47

4.1.2 Bottom irrigation .................................................................................................................................................... 48

4.1.3 Irrigation controllers .............................................................................................................................................. 49

4.1.4 Irrigation scheduling ............................................................................................................................................. 50

4.1.5 System Design and Operation .......................................................................................................................... 51

4.1.6 Misting Systems ...................................................................................................................................................... 51

4.1.7 Filtration Systems ................................................................................................................................................... 51

4.1.8 Pumps and other irrigation equipment ......................................................................................................... 52

4.1.9 Fertigation ................................................................................................................................................................. 52

4.2 Wastewater reuse ................................................................................................................................................................ 53

4.3 Sediments and litter ........................................................................................................................................................... 54

4.4 Nutrients in wastewater .................................................................................................................................................... 55

4.5 Contamination of wastewater with plant protection products ......................................................................... 56

4.5.1 Reducing levels of plant protection products in wastewater ............................................................... 56

4.5.2 Application equipment and chemical handling and storage ................................................................ 57

APPENDIX 1 SUPPLIERS OF GROWING MEDIA AND GROWING MEDIA INGREDIENTS ............... 58

A.1.1 Need for growing media supplier accreditation ................................................................................................. 58

A.1.2 What is involved? ............................................................................................................................................................ 59

A.1.3 Freedom of site from Phytophthora spp. ............................................................................................................... 59

A.1.4 Quality control procedures ......................................................................................................................................... 59

A.1.5 Prevention of product, equipment & site contamination ............................................................................... 60

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A.1.6 Personnel ............................................................................................................................................................................ 61

A.1.7 Internal audits ................................................................................................................................................................... 61

A.1.8 External audits .................................................................................................................................................................. 61

A.1.9 Manufacturer standards ............................................................................................................................................... 62

A.1.10 Production nursery monitoring ............................................................................................................................... 62

A.1.11 Flow chart ........................................................................................................................................................................ 62

A.1.12 Guidelines for composting bark and sawdust .................................................................................................. 63

A.1.13 Records ............................................................................................................................................................................. 66

A.1.14 Growing media batch sampling requirements ................................................................................................. 66

A.1.15 Site sampling needs for soil borne diseases ...................................................................................................... 67

A.1.16 Site sanitation ................................................................................................................................................................. 68

A.1.17 Storage of fertilisers, additives and components ............................................................................................ 69

A.1.18 Pathogen certification ................................................................................................................................................. 71

A.1.19 Growing media component supplies.................................................................................................................... 71

A.1.20 Compliance declaration ............................................................................................................................................. 72

APPENDIX 2 SAMPLING AND DETECTING MAJOR PLANT PATHOGENS IN POTTED PLANTS, GROWING MEDIA, SOIL AND WATER SUPPLIES .............................................................................. 73

A.2.1 Detecting fungal plant pathogens ........................................................................................................................... 73

A.2.2 Sampling considerations for diseases other than caused by Phytophthora spp. .................................. 73

A.2.3 Collecting and sending plant samples for laboratory testing ....................................................................... 73

A.2.4 Direct isolations ............................................................................................................................................................... 74

A.2.5 Direct microscope examination ................................................................................................................................. 74

A.2.6 Baiting for Phytophthora spp...................................................................................................................................... 75

A.2.7 Symptoms of Phytophthora diseases ..................................................................................................................... 77

A.2.8 Baiting water supplies ................................................................................................................................................... 77

A.2.9 Other detection techniques ........................................................................................................................................ 78

A.2.10 Sampling precautions to prevent spread of diseases or cross contamination of samples ............. 78

A.2.11 Collecting samples from growing media suppliers ......................................................................................... 79

APPENDIX 3 DISINFESTATION PROCEDURES FOR NURSERY GROWING MEDIA .......................... 81

A.3.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................................... 81

A.3.2 Pasteurisation with aerated steam ........................................................................................................................... 81

A.3.3 Basamid ............................................................................................................................................................................... 82

A.3.4 Soil solarisation ................................................................................................................................................................ 82

A.3.5 Storage and handling of treated growing media ............................................................................................... 84

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A.3.6 Transport of treated growing media ....................................................................................................................... 84

A.3.7 Beneficial micro-organisms ......................................................................................................................................... 84

APPENDIX 4 SAMPLE RECORDING SHEETS ....................................................................................... 86

APPENDIX 5 NIASA PRODUCTION NURSERY CHECKLIST .............................................................. 93

SECTION 1: Water and irrigation .......................................................................................................................................... 94

SECTION 2: Growing media .................................................................................................................................................... 98

SECTION 3: Propagation ....................................................................................................................................................... 102

SECTION 4: Protected production areas ........................................................................................................................ 105

SECTION 5: Exposed production areas ........................................................................................................................... 107

SECTION 6: Inground production areas ......................................................................................................................... 109

SECTION 7: Plant handling .................................................................................................................................................. 110

SECTION 8: Plant protection chemicals and equipment.......................................................................................... 111

SECTION 9: Plant imports ..................................................................................................................................................... 112

SECTION 10: Plant growing and storage containers ................................................................................................. 113

SECTION 11: Business management ................................................................................................................................ 114

SECTION 12: Pathology samples ....................................................................................................................................... 117

APPENDIX 6 THE NURSERY PAPERS ................................................................................................ 118

APPENDIX 7 IN-GROUND PLANT PRODUCTION ............................................................................ 120

A.7.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................... 120

A.7.2 Break the pest and disease life cycle .................................................................................................................... 121

A.7.3 Avoid other people’s problems .............................................................................................................................. 124

A.7.4 Know your pests ........................................................................................................................................................... 126

A.7.5 Minimise pesticide use ............................................................................................................................................... 126

A.7.6 Other issues .................................................................................................................................................................... 127

APPENDIX 8 NURSERY INDUSTRY WATER MANAGEMENT BEST PRACTICE GUIDELINES ......... 128

APPENDIX 9 GREENLIFE MARKETS .................................................................................................. 129

A.9.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................... 129

A.9.2 Need for trade only access ....................................................................................................................................... 129

A.9.3 Vehicle access ................................................................................................................................................................ 130

A.9.4 Trade customer requirements ................................................................................................................................. 130

A.9.5 Professional appearance ........................................................................................................................................... 131

A.9.6 Merchandise displays ................................................................................................................................................. 132

A.9.7 Greenlife Market logo ................................................................................................................................................ 132

A.9.8 Origin of plant material ............................................................................................................................................. 132

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A.9.9 Traceability ...................................................................................................................................................................... 134

A.9.10 Greenlife Standards Policy ..................................................................................................................................... 134

A.9.11 Site security .................................................................................................................................................................. 135

A.9.12 Site management....................................................................................................................................................... 135

A.9.13 Water management .................................................................................................................................................. 136

A.9.14 Growing media ........................................................................................................................................................... 136

A.9.15 Pesticides and spraying equipment ................................................................................................................... 137

A.9.16 Policies and Supplier Declaration template .................................................................................................... 138

A.9.17 Plant Inspection Procedure .................................................................................................................................... 142

APPENDIX 10 NIASA GREENLIFE MARKET CHECKLIST ................................................................. 144

SECTION 1: Water and irrigation ....................................................................................................................................... 145

SECTION 2: Growing media ................................................................................................................................................. 148

SECTION 3: Protected growing areas .............................................................................................................................. 150

SECTION 4: Exposed production areas ........................................................................................................................... 152

SECTION 5: Plant handling .................................................................................................................................................. 153


SECTION 7: Plant imports ..................................................................................................................................................... 156

SECTION 8: Plant growing and storage containers ................................................................................................... 158

SECTION 9: Business management .................................................................................................................................. 159

APPENDIX 11 NIASA GROWING MEDIA SUPPLIER CHECKLIST ................................................... 163

SECTION 1: Water and irrigation ....................................................................................................................................... 164

SECTION 2: Site drainage ..................................................................................................................................................... 166

SECTION 3: Completed growing media ......................................................................................................................... 167

SECTION 4: Raw material processing .............................................................................................................................. 168

SECTION 5: Site management ............................................................................................................................................ 170

SECTION 6: Sampling requirements ................................................................................................................................ 171


SECTION 8: Storage of fertilisers and components ................................................................................................... 173

SECTION 9: Product quality ................................................................................................................................................. 174

SECTION 10: Staff issues ....................................................................................................................................................... 175

SECTION 11: Information sources and environmental performance .................................................................. 176

SECTION 12: Professional image and appearance ..................................................................................................... 176

SECTION 13: Commitment to continuous improvement ........................................................................................ 177

SECTION 14: Pathology samples ....................................................................................................................................... 178

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APPENDIX 12 FREIGHT AND LOGISTICS ......................................................................................... 179

A.12.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................. 179

A.12.2 Dispatch ......................................................................................................................................................................... 179

A.12.3 Loading .......................................................................................................................................................................... 179

A.12.4 Division of orders ....................................................................................................................................................... 180

A.12.5 Climate control ........................................................................................................................................................... 180

A.12.6 Unloading ..................................................................................................................................................................... 180

A.12.7 Vehicle maintenance ................................................................................................................................................ 180

A.12.8 Vehicle hygiene .......................................................................................................................................................... 180

A.12.9 Vehicle wash down area ......................................................................................................................................... 181

A.12.10 Heavy Vehicle National Law ................................................................................................................................ 181

APPENDIX 13 AVOCADO NURSERY STOCK SPECIFICATION ......................................................... 183

A.13.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................. 183

A.13.2 Materials used in plant production .................................................................................................................... 183

A.13.2.1 Water ................................................................................................................................................................. 183

A.13.2.2 Growing media/propagating media ...................................................................................................... 184

A.13.2.3 Seed, budwood and scion material ....................................................................................................... 184

A.13.2.4 Labelling of materials and propagated plants .................................................................................. 189

A.13.3 Disinfestation and hygiene .................................................................................................................................... 189

A.13.3.1 Preparing disinfectant solutions ............................................................................................................. 190

A.13.3.2 Disinfestation and hygiene procedures ............................................................................................... 190

A.13.4 Testing for the presence of Group 1 viroids in multiplication trees or propagated plants ......... 192

A.13.4.1 Option 1 - Testing of multiplication trees for Group 1 viroids ................................................... 192

A.13.4.2 Option 2 - In-line testing of propagated plants for Group 1 viroids ....................................... 195

A.13.5 Inspection and testing for the presence of Group 1 non-viroid pathogens in propagated plants .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 196

A.13.5.1 Inspection requirements ............................................................................................................................ 197

A.13.5.2 Action on identification of symptoms of infection or infestation ............................................. 199

A.13.6 Use of fungicides ....................................................................................................................................................... 202

A.13.7 Product quality and meeting customer expectations ................................................................................. 202

A.13.8 Auditing for compliance and continual improvement................................................................................ 203

SCHEDULE 1: GROUP 1 and 2 VIROID AND NON-VIROID PATHOGENS .......................................................... 205

SCHEDULE 2: EXAMPLE RECORD SHEETS ...................................................................................................................... 208

AVOCADO NURSERY STOCK SPECIFICATION CHECKLIST ..................................................................................... 215

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APPENDIX 14 TREE STOCK SPECIFICATION .................................................................................... 224

A.14.1 True to type .................................................................................................................................................................. 224

A.14.2 Tree stock health ........................................................................................................................................................ 224

A.14.3 Height and calliper .................................................................................................................................................... 225

A.14.4 Formative pruning ..................................................................................................................................................... 225

A.14.5 Structure of stem and branches .......................................................................................................................... 225

A.14.6 Crown distribution..................................................................................................................................................... 225

A.14.7 Compatibility of graft unions ................................................................................................................................ 225

A.14.8 Trunk position ............................................................................................................................................................. 226

A.14.9 Rootball diameter and depth ................................................................................................................................ 226

A.14.10 Height of root crown ............................................................................................................................................. 226

A.14.11 Rootstock suckering ............................................................................................................................................... 226

A.14.12 Rootball occupancy ................................................................................................................................................ 226

A.14.13 Root direction ........................................................................................................................................................... 226

A.14.14 Root division ............................................................................................................................................................. 226

A.14.15 Self-supporting ........................................................................................................................................................ 226

A.14.16 Treestock balance ................................................................................................................................................... 227

TREE STOCK SPECIFICATION CHECKLIST ...................................................................................................................... 228

APPENDIX 15 MACADAMIA NURSERY STOCK SPECIFICATION .................................................... 235

A.15.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................. 235

A.15.2 General production nursery requirements ...................................................................................................... 235

A.15.2.1 Water ................................................................................................................................................................. 235

A.15.2.2 Growing media / propagating media ................................................................................................... 236

A.15.2.3 Beds and benching ....................................................................................................................................... 236

A.15.2.4 Disinfestation and hygiene ....................................................................................................................... 237

A.15.3 Source materials to be used for propagation ................................................................................................ 240

A.15.3.1 Source blocks ................................................................................................................................................. 240

A.15.3.2 Propagation material collection records ............................................................................................. 241

A.15.3.3 Parent tree variety identification ............................................................................................................ 242

A.15.4 Material collection and handling ......................................................................................................................... 243

A.15.4.1 Seed nut ............................................................................................................................................................ 243

A.15.4.2 Budwood .......................................................................................................................................................... 244

A.15.4.3 Notes on Cuttings ......................................................................................................................................... 247

A.15.5 Propagation ................................................................................................................................................................. 248

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A.15.5.1 Sowing seed .................................................................................................................................................... 248

A.15.5.2 Transplanting / potting up seedlings into a final container ........................................................ 255

A.15.5.3 Grafting ............................................................................................................................................................. 258

A.15.5.4 Labelling of grafted trees .......................................................................................................................... 260

A.15.6 Plant health monitoring .......................................................................................................................................... 260

A.15.6.1 Inspection and monitoring ....................................................................................................................... 260

A.15.6.2 Inspection procedure - Above ground plant parts ......................................................................... 262

A.15.6.3 Inspection procedure - Below ground plant parts (Sentinel trees)........................................... 264

A.15.6.4 Maintaining records of inspection ......................................................................................................... 266

A.15.7 Pathogen testing ........................................................................................................................................................ 267

A.15.7.1 NIASA approved testing laboratories ................................................................................................... 267

A.15.7.2 Maintaining records of testing ................................................................................................................ 267

A.15.8 Product quality and meeting customer expectations ................................................................................. 267


SCHEDULE 1: GROUP 1 and GROUP 2 PATHOGENS ................................................................................................. 271


MACADAMIA NURSERY STOCK SPECIFICATION CHECKLIST ................................................................................ 276

APPENDIX 16 BANANA NURSERY STOCK SPECIFICATION ........................................................... 285

A.16.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................. 285

A.16.2 PART A – Sourcing or collection of material for tissue culture initiation ............................................ 286

A.16.2.1 Proximity to known infestation ............................................................................................................... 286

A.16.2.2 Biosecurity plan ............................................................................................................................................. 286

A.16.2.3 Training in symptoms of banana pest and disease infestation .................................................. 287

A.16.2.4 Decontamination requirements for entry onto the mother plant source property ........... 287

A.16.2.5 Inspection for disease in the mother plant block ............................................................................ 288

A.16.2.6 Inspection of mother plants ..................................................................................................................... 288

A.16.2.7 Assigning a unique mother plant ID/ clone number ...................................................................... 288

A.16.2.8 Collection of leaf indexing samples and propagation materials ............................................... 288

A.16.2.9 Packaging leaf indexing samples (leaf and/or bract) for transport to an approved testing laboratory .......................................................................................................................................................................... 291

A.16.2.10 Packaging propagation material (bells/suckers) for transport ................................................. 292

A.16.2.11 Records ........................................................................................................................................................... 292

A.16.3 PART B – Tissue culture production requirements ....................................................................................... 293

A.16.3.1 Tissue culture facility design requirements ........................................................................................ 293

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A.16.3.2 Tissue culture facility process requirements ...................................................................................... 293

A.16.3.3 Material traceability ..................................................................................................................................... 294

A.16.3.4 Receipt of propagation materials ........................................................................................................... 294

A.16.3.5 Initiation and establishment of banana cultures .............................................................................. 295

A.16.3.6 Multiplication .................................................................................................................................................. 295

A.16.3.7 Records of material receipt and disposition ...................................................................................... 296

A.16.3.8 Consignment of tissue culture plantlets .............................................................................................. 296

A.16.3.9 Disposal of banana materials and failed cultures ............................................................................ 296

A.16.4 PART C – Banana nursery plant production requirements ....................................................................... 297

A.16.4.1 Proximity to known infestation ............................................................................................................... 297

A.16.4.2 Materials used in plant production ....................................................................................................... 297

A.16.4.3 Decontamination and hygiene ................................................................................................................ 298

A.16.4.4 Monitoring banana plants for Group 1 and Group 2 Viruses and other pathogens, weeds, pests and off-types ........................................................................................................................................................ 302

A.16.4.5 Action on receipt of a positive test result for a Group 1 virus or other pathogens ........... 303

A.16.4.6 Product quality and meeting customer expectations .................................................................... 303


SCHEDULE 1: GROUP 1 AND GROUP 2 VIRUSES AND OTHER PATHOGENS ................................................. 306


BANANA NURSERY STOCK SPECIFICATIONS CHECKLIST ....................................................................................... 310

ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................................................................................ 324

GLOSSARY .......................................................................................................................................... 325

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INTRODUCTION TO NIASA




These guidelines describe industry ‘Best Management Practices’ for production nurseries, growing media suppliers and greenlife markets. They have been divided into five major sections:

• Crop hygiene (root disease prevention, and disease, pest and weed control);

• Crop management practices (nutrition and environment control);

• General site management;

• Water management; and

• Appendices.

These guidelines can be used as a reference for the professional operation of production nurseries, growing media suppliers and greenlife markets. They are also used as the mechanism for assessment to gain and maintain NIASA accreditation status. Such assessments are carried out by Auditors using the appropriate NIASA Checklist.

The areas shaded on the NIASA Checklists indicate they are mandatory items which must achieve a ‘Does not apply’, ‘Satisfactory’ or a ‘Complies fully’ rating prior to NIASA Accreditation being issued and then subsequently maintained as evidenced during each future audit.

Note: In certain situations, the Auditor has discretion in the interpretation of these guidelines, as long as any variations are approved by the National Governance Committee.

NIASA business operators are proud of their products and professionalism

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An Auditor inspecting roots for disease symptoms.

1 CROP HYGIENE

1.1 The prevention of root diseases

The prevention of root diseases, particularly those caused by Phytophthora spp., Cylindrocladium spp. and Chalara elegans are a major consideration as, once contracted, most cannot be eradicated in a commercial or end-use situation. Root rot prevention relies on a complete package of strategies, which is successfully operated only when the life cycles of the pathogens are fully understood.

Where a root rot outbreak occurs in a production nursery set up cropping system with what appears to be the full complement of cultural and physical barriers in place to prevent the completion of pathogen life cycles, the cause is almost invariably due to a lack of staff or operator training. There will be annual scientific testing of the effectiveness of hygiene practices at the direction of the Auditor.

1.1.1 Water

Reticulated (town) water and water from bores and clean roof catchments should not require disinfestation treatment. However, if water from such sources is stored in a way that allows contamination, for example an unlined earth dam or uncovered tank, then it must be treated as for surface water supplies. Note: town water in some country areas is not treated by the supply authority and may require disinfestation.

Water sourced from non-contaminated sources or disinfested and stored for subsequent use must be stored in such a way as to prevent contamination by pathogens.

Clean water is essential for healthy vigorous plant growth.

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The pH and EC of all water sources must be checked and recorded at least once per month as even town water supplies can have variations in quality. See APPENDIX 4 SAMPLE RECORDING SHEETS for a sample recording sheet.

Water from surface supplies, springs, effluents, or water testing positive for the presence of root-rot organisms must be disinfested by at least one of the methods approved by the National Governance Committee (NGC).

Chlorine (as hypochlorous acid)

It is known that above pH 7, the amount of available hypochlorous acid in solution falls rapidly until little occurs at pH 8. Chlorine residual levels for effective water treatment need to be maintained between 2ppm – 3ppm for a minimum contact time of 20 minutes at a pH of between 5.5 and 7.5.

Chlorination, like all oxidants, has a reduced efficacy if water contains high levels of organic material (e.g. soil), iron and nitrogenous fertilisers.

Chlorobromination

To treat water effectively a residual level of 3ppm is required after an 8 minute contact time. It may be required to increase the contact time at higher pH levels to achieve the desired 3ppm residual.

Chlorobromine has a similar action to chlorine in disinfesting water. It is effective over a wider range of pH’s and at pH 8.5 60% of bromine is still present as hypobromous acid. Bromine and chlorine react with nitrogen-based compounds to form bromamines which have comparable disinfestation properties to bromine, meaning less chemical should be required when using bromine.

Chlorine dioxide

Chlorine dioxide has been shown to be highly effective for disinfesting a range of plant pathogens including; Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria zinniae, Colletotrichum capsici, Pythium ultimum and Phytophthora cinnamomi (zoospores and chlamydospores) over a range of water pH levels up to pH 10.

It needs to be applied at a minimum available concentration of 3 mg/L ppm for 8 minutes to control waterborne fungal pathogens. Chlorine dioxide also oxidises iron.

Disinfestation properties of chlorine dioxide are unaffected by pH as high as 10 plus chlorine dioxide is 10 times as soluble in cold water than chlorine and is a more selective oxidiser than chlorine therefore not as reactive to organic matter in the water. This translates to having a lower dosage rate to achieve an active residual disinfectant. Although chlorine dioxide equipment is more expensive than other chlorination systems, this method of disinfestation is likely to be more effective considering the quality of surface captured water in Australia (high pH).

Ozonation

Ozone kills chlamydospores of Phytophthora cinnamomi in dam water at an average residual dose of 1.4 mg/L (ppm) over 16 minutes. Ozone demand increases with alkalinity and the concentration of bicarbonate, iron and ammonium but is less affected by pH and temperature than chlorine. Ozone can oxide manganese and iron compounds and many pesticides and has excellent activity against viruses.

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Ultraviolet (UV) radiation

Ultraviolet radiation is an effective and environmentally friendly method of controlling Phytophthora cinnamomi, Fusarium oxysporum, Colletotrichum capsici and Alternaria zinniae. Water must be of a very high quality, be free of suspended materials, tannins, iron and manganese and have a high UV transmission (greater than 60% UV transmission after filtration) and exposure dose is at least 5.0 x105µW.s.cm-2.

Microfiltration

Microfiltration and membrane filtration have been shown to be impractical in Europe because the poor quality water in nurseries clogs filters. It also has extremely high operating costs. However, in situations where low volumes of water are required and disposal of wastewater can be addressed it may provide a viable option.

Slow flow filtration

This system uses both physical and biological processes to filter and break down organic matter and kill pathogenic bacteria and fungi. To adequately control the range pathogens using slow flow filtration (SFF) flow rates of 100L/hr/m² should be used. Sand of specific grades is the predominant filter medium used, but if rockwool is used as the filtering medium it must be granulated premium superflock rockwool. Slow flow filtration systems must not be allowed to dry out or heat up and pre-filtering is necessary to remove algae or silt.

See the relevant Nursery Papers and other references for alternative methods and discuss them with the Auditor.

The following table lists the minimum residual levels and contact times for NIASA approved disinfectants

Table 1 - NIASA approved water disinfestation methods

Chemical Disinfectants

Name Residual level after contact time (ppm)

Contact time

(minutes)

Effective water pH

range

Comments

Chlorine 2.5 20 5.5 – 7.5 Decreased efficacy at higher pH Chloro bromine 3 8 5.5 – 9.0 Increase contact time at higher pH Chlorine dioxide 3 8 5.0 – 10.0 Increased efficacy with higher pH

Ozone 1.4 16 Nil Requires complete mixing into water Iodine 5 30 Nil Increased efficacy at approx. 20°C

Non-Chemical Disinfestation

Name Treatment regime Ultrafiltration <0.1µm UV irradiation >60% UV transmittance at 254µm

Slow Flow Filtration (SFF) (**) ≤100L/hr/m² flow rate ** Note: If rockwool is used as the filtering medium in SFF, it must be granulated premium superflock rockwool.

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Adequate records of water disinfestation treatments must be maintained. The minimal requirement for testing and recording chlorination, chlorine dioxide or chloro-bromination treatments is once per month. These records must include; pH of water before treatment, free chlorine concentration at start of contact time, contact time, free chlorine concentration at end of contact time (residual). See APPENDIX 4 SAMPLE RECORDING SHEETS for a sample recording sheet.

The Auditor can require a greater degree of testing.

The Auditor will recommend recording requirements for other disinfestation treatments.

The subsequent storage of treated water requires facilities and procedures that do not allow for contamination by untreated water, soil, plant debris, dust and animal movement.

References

Beware of Chalara elegans – Black root rot, The Nursery Papers, 1999#13

Chalara (black root rot), can you recognise it? The Nursery Papers, 2001#07

Using ultra violet radiation and chlorine dioxide to control fungal plant pathogens in water, The Nursery Papers, 1996#05.

Water disinfection – Chloro-bromination and ozone systems get the thumbs up!

The Nursery Papers, 1997#08.

Slow flow sand filtration for water disinfestation in nurseries and greenhouses,

The Nursery Papers, 1999 #03

Managing water in plant nurseries, NSW Agriculture, 2nd edition, 2000

1.1.2 Growing media/propagating media

Routine disinfestation of growing media/propagating media. There is no requirement to routinely disinfest materials generally considered to be free of major plant pathogens (approved materials) or those from a source consistently testing free of specified pathogens (approved supplier).

Perlite, vermiculite and properly composted and correctly stored pine barks prepared on clean surfaces, are most often free of the major pathogens occurring in propagating facilities, (Pythium spp., Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium spp., Cylindrocladium spp., Phytophthora spp., Chalara spp. and Botrytis spp.).

However, experience indicates that contaminated propagules, tools, containers, preparation surfaces, water and dust and splashed or windborne inoculum presents a much greater risk of plant disease.

Sand presents a significant risk of carrying plant diseases including Pythium spp., Rhizoctonia spp., Phytophthora spp. and nematodes and if sourced from a depth less than 2 metres must be treated or regularly tested and found free of specified pathogens.

Sand is often washed with water from surface water supplies such as rivers, creeks, dams and, without disinfestation, may potentially contaminate clean sand.

To minimise the risk of contamination with plant pathogens and nematodes, growing media suppliers must source sand from deeper than 2 metres and ensure that no surface water drains onto the

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