Summary

This proposal is for an interim one-year project to continue research into the control of these serious soil-borne pathogens, and one that should identify key areas needed for future research.

Serious diseases and pests have emerged that are threatening the viability of the ginger industry. Pythium myriotylum is a devastating soil-borne disease of ginger first identified by ginger growers in the 2007/08 growing season (Stirling et al. 2009), with some producers reporting total crop losses in some blocks. Currently processors are not receiving adequate supply of ginger, therefore the disease not only is a threat to individual growers but also to processors that add value to the crop. Collectively the ginger industry is valued at $90 m per annum.

DEEDI have undertaken field trials in Australia and Fiji, funded by the ACIAR, to demonstrate the value of clean planting material and to investigate cultural practices and chemical control strategies to control and limit the spread of soil-borne diseases affecting ginger production.

The Australian Ginger Growers’ Association is currently in the process of establishing a R&D levy.

Program

Ginger

Research Organisation

OLD ABN-The State Of Queensland Acting Through The Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation

Objective Summary

(1) 50% adoption of practices to control Pythium rhizome rot and symphylids within 2 years after completion of research and dissemination of results
(2) Increased production of ginger both from existing farms and through take up of new land in the Mary Valley (as above)