ISHS Acta Horticulturae 316: International Workshop on Intensive Cultivation of Protea
AN OVERVIEW OF THE NATIVE FLORA AND PROTEA INDUSTRIES IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA |
| Author: | Mark G. Webb |
| Abstract:
The export of native cut flowers and foliage from Western Australia has increased in importance over the past ten years. From an industry based solely on material picked from the bush, it has developed into a $A7.5 million industry with an increasing amount of product being intensively cultivated on farms. Bush picking is still important for product diversity and for providing material which cannot be propagated, or for which low returns make intensive management unviable. Proteas have only been grown commercially in Western Australia since 1984, with most plantings occurring in the past three to four years. The current value of exports, mainly to Japan, is estimated to be less than $A1 million. The export from Western Australia, of cut flowers and foilage from native flora and proteas, could increase by up to 400% over the next two to three years as many plantings reach full production. Industry will undoubtedly be faced with challenges as they promote their product and ensure that market demands are met. | |
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