New Zealand has experienced an increasing number of pest incursions over the last 50 years as international trade and travel have grown. Climate change is also increasing pest and disease risk
Nurseries are havens for pest and disease establishment. They are usually home to many plant species in a vulnerable, juvenile state growing in moist, warm conditions: an ideal pest incubator. Therefore it is likely new plant pests will be first found in a nursery. Diseases and pests can then spread rapidly through the plant production supply chain as it is quick, efficient and nationwide.
Myrtle rust was first discovered in mainland New Zealand in 2017 on a pohutukawa seedling in a Kerikeri plant nursery. It has now been found across the North Island and in upper areas of the South Island.
Cinnamon fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomi), the plant parasite Pythium and the Fusarium fungus are ubiquitous; the pathogen that causes kauri dieback continues to spread; and the red tomato spider mite, fall armyworm and invasive ants are of growing concern.
New Zealand plant producers manage these and other pests, daily.
Taking a proactive approach to biosecurity in the nursery is not only good for business but helps protect Aotearoa’s economy, unique natural environment and way of life.
Biosecurity preparedness and response
NZPPI works with government agencies, producers and other sector organisations to develop preparedness plans to manage biosecurity risks associated with imported plants and seeds. In the event of a biosecurity incursion, NZPPI has decision-making rights through its GIA partnershipand can help decide how Biosecurity New Zealand should respond.
Plant Pass
NZPPI is the manager of Plant Pass, a science-based framework to help producers identify, control, manage and avoid biosecurity risk. Producers can work to achieve certification Plant Pass, with specific production modules that focus on certain types of plants. For full details on Plant Pass and how to register with the scheme, visit the Plant Pass website.
NZPPI Disease Management Platform
NZPPI has developed a plant disease management platform to help producers. The platform contains up-to-date weather summaries, seasonal growing factors and forecast information to guide spray application and cultural pest control. We also provide weekly emailed reports of disease risk in specific areas, based on weather station data. Each update takes into account seasonal growing factors and research-based disease risk models for myrtle rust, black spot and downy mildew. We also provide regular disease management workshops.