PROTECTED CROPPING OF ZANTEDESCHIA TUBERS AND CUTFLOWERS IN NEW ZEALAND

Exports of Zantedeschia cutflowers and tubers from New Zealand have risen dramatically. The main export of flowers occurs between November and February and tubers from June to September. Zantedeschia hybrids flower naturally over the summer period followed by a short rest period as an underground tuber. Plants are daylength neutral in response and can be cycled out of season under protected environments. Traditional field production of flowers and tubers is characterised by the incidence of disease infection and lack of control over flowering. Studies are being conducted to schedule production of healthy flowers and tubers under controlled conditions.