Brassica

Have a plan for terminating your cover crop before you sow!

A combination of chemical and mechanical methods are needed to get good cover crop kill.

This double-sided A3 poster provides the starting point for growers choosing a cover crop for their farm by adapting the information on the table to suit their farm operations, climate and cover crop objective.

If you're considering cover crops on your farm, this informative poster is for you. It provides a solid starting point to help vegetable growers choose a cover crop to suit their farming operation, climate and cover crop objectives with information on the benefits, growth tolerances, soil conditions, sowing and establishment traits for a range of cover crop species.

This publication contains information to assist growers in understanding how biofumigants work and managing them for optimum efficacy against soilborne diseases.

Biofumigants are a unique type of cover crop that produce compounds with suppression effects on soilborne pathogens, pests and weeds.

This guide also discusses and presents data on a range of agronomic management practices of biofumigant cover crops including pest and diseases, nutrient uptake requirements, irrigation and incorporation methods.

Plant analysis is used as a tool to fine tune the nutrition of crops. The nutrient status of plants or parts of plants can be determined directly via laboratory analysis or estimated via in-field testing, while the overall health and nutrient status of a crop can be assessed via non-destructive sensing technologies, e.g. using colourimeters, Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) or other remote sensing technologies.

This guide only deals with laboratory based plant nutrient analyses, specifically dry matter analysis and sap analysis. These are analyses of specific plant parts sampled from an entire crop or distinct area(s) in a crop using standardised sampling and sample handling methods. The analyses can be used for leaves, petioles, fruit, tubers/rhizomes/bulbs or entire plants.

In this edition: Online hub has all you need to tackle fall armyworm; upcoming events and webinars; veg and melon demo site news from SA and Vic; catch up on the Soil Wealth ICP grower panel discussion at AVIS; manage sucking pests with our Mega Pest fact sheet; and 5 tips for working with cover crops video.

Want to regain control over chemical-resistant pests? Aiming to reduce costs while meeting quality assurance requirements? The Soil Wealth ICP extension team has updated a fact sheet to help growers manage Mega Pests.

In this short video, Soil Wealth ICP cover crop expert Dr Kelvin Montagu shares five tips for working with cover crops following a trial in Victoria.

Ahead of Hort Connections 2023, Australian vegetable growers heard how their peers have worked with the Soil Wealth ICP project to improve their productivity, profitability and sustainability in field trials to boost soil and plant health at the Annual Vegetable Industry Seminar (AVIS) in Adelaide on Monday 5 June.

In this edition: Steph to search for a nitrogen fix in veg production, upcoming events and webinars, demonstration site news from Tas and Vic, navigating pest management options and the basics of spray application.

In this edition: Event wrap-ups on the Soil Biology Masterclass and Chinese grower's field day, seasonal climate outlook for August to October 2023, upcoming events and webinars, new demonstration sites confirmed for Victoria and new resources including veg field ID guides, on-farm waste resources and managing carbon on vegetable farms.

Soil biology, with its vast complexity and diversity across regions, delivers many key functions to soil. Understanding how soil biology can be nurtured to best support healthy crops is important.

The Soil Wealth ICP and PotatoLink teams recently held a masterclass in Gatton, Queensland to provide growers, agronomists and others in the industry an opportunity to examine the theoretical and practical aspects of managing soil biology in vegetable and potato production. Read more in our wrap-up.

The Soil Wealth ICP team joined Greater Sydney Local Land Services (LLS) at a field day at Richmond Lowlands, NSW in June with a focus on farm practices that can help or hinder soil health and integrated pest management (IPM). The event, held in conjunction with the Chinese Grower Group's Annual General Meeting, brought together 50 enthusiastic participants. Read more in our article.

The Soil Wealth ICP team has been busy setting up a new network of demonstration sites around the country for the next five years. This will include 10 vegetable sites, aligned with VegNET regions, and four melon sites.

We’re excited to share an update on two confirmed vegetable demonstration sites in Victoria’s south-east and Gippsland: Skye (Butler Market Gardens) and Tarwin (Schreurs & Sons).

Vegetable and melon growers know that managing on-farm waste – whether it's organic, plastic or workshop waste – is a key issue that needs to be addressed to build a sustainable business. Two national projects have made significant progress in identifying the type and amount of waste in Australia's primary industries, including non-packaging plastic waste, and what steps need to be taken to manage it.

A field identification guide or 'ute guide'

Hort Connections 2023 special edition: Soil Wealth ICP panel session at the Annual Vegetable Industry Seminar (AVIS), weed management technology set to be showcased in Queensland, rapid spread of DBM insecticide resistance, Trade Show highlights, Soil Wealth ICP collaborators celebrated at the Horticulture Awards for Excellence and upcoming events.

In this edition: Veg and melon growers to benefit from Soil Wealth ICP Phase 2, Soil Biology Masterclass registrations, Vic veg innovation days showcases Soil Wealth ICP cover crop trial, Bathurst growers prepare for winter cover crops, upcoming events and webinars, demonstration site news from VIC and new resources from VicVID 2023, Biological Products Database updates, and plant sampling for nutrient analysis webinar recording.

The vegetable industry welcomed the Victorian Vegetable Innovation Days (VicVID) at Catani from 27-28 April 2023.

The Soil Wealth ICP team enjoyed exhibiting at VicVID and supporting the communication of results from the seed and agrichemical field trials via Facebook livestreams, as well as discussing the results of our cover crop trial.

Soil Wealth ICP team member Dr Doris Blaesing presented at a Soil Network of Knowledge webinar to discuss plant sampling methodologies which can be used in a broad range of production systems.

With winter on the way, growers and agronomists from the Bathurst region of New South Wales took advantage of a cover crop coaching clinic in April 2023.

Soil Wealth ICP team member Dr Kelvin Montagu delivered a mini-workshop and field walk which discussed how to select, manage and terminate cover crops to improve soil health and reduce fertiliser costs.

Soil Wealth ICP team member Carl Larsen was on-site at the Victorian Vegetable Innovation Days (VicVID) on 28 April 2023 to deliver two Facebook livestreams of the agrichemical and seed field trial results alongside event organisers and agronomists Stuart Grigg and Connor Steel.

This Biological Product Database is a tool for growers that will assist with navigating the array of ‘biological’ products currently available to their farming business. We have compiled the information in response to questions from growers about available products on the Australian market.

The Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection (ICP) project works with growers to put soil management and plant health research into practice. This article explores what vegetable and melon growers can look forward to in this space over the next five years.

Soil Wealth ICP team member Doris Blaesing attended the Nutrien Ag Solutions South-East Agronomy Conference in Melbourne to present on soil borne disease management in vegetable crops. Doris spoke on the importance of soil health in managing soil borne diseases, and the practices that growers can use to promote healthier soils and avoid disease risks.

In this edition: See our cover crop trial at VicVID, Soil Biology Masterclass registrations, using soil health to manage soil borne disease risk,upcoming events and webinars, demonstration site news from NSW, resources on Phase 2 achievements and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

RMCG and AHR have delivered the Soil Wealth ICP project to the Australian vegetable industry on behalf of Hort Innovation. Phase 2 of the project (2017-2022) has now been completed.

Watch this video to find out the highlights from Phase 2 including grower engagement, training and events, demonstration sites, communication products and resources, and progress towards industry outcomes.

In this edition: Tips to correctly identify veg insects, guidance on handling fresh produce exposed to floodwaters, upcoming events and webinars, demonstration site news from WA, resources on reduced till and strip-till for vegetable and potato growers and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

Brothers Ed and James Fagan run their 1,400-hectare farm on the banks of the Lachlan River near Cowra, NSW.

The Fagans have been involved with the Soil Wealth project since 2014. They have embraced considerable change, with benefits as well as some difficulties along the way.

Mulgowie Farming Company is an Australian owned and operated vegetable grower and packer.

In collaboration with Soil Wealth ICP, Mulgowie trialled strip-tillage combined with their existing cover cropping practices at their Maffra farm, 220km east of Melbourne.

Their primary goal was to use strip-tillage to improve soil health characteristics like water infiltration and water holding capacity, to improve crop health and yield, reduce costs and ultimately improve profitability.

This guide summarises and provides easy access to useful resources developed by the Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection project from December 2017 to February 2023.

The Three Ryans in Manjimup, Western Australia, first became involved with the Soil Wealth ICP project in 2019 with the goal of improving their soil health by trying cover cropping combined with strip-tillage.

Fast forward three years and, despite some hurdles along the way, the Ryans have adopted the use of cover crops and strip-till more permanently in their operations.

This fact sheet from VegNET Tasmania steps growers through the key considerations to maximise the use of your fertiliser, including establishing healthy plant roots, improving soil structure and establishing strong fertiliser practices using the 4Rs (right source, right rate, right time, right place).

In this episode of InfoVeg TV, produced by AUSVEG, project leads Carl Larsen from RMCG and Gordon Rogers from Applied Horticultural Research provide an overview of Soil Wealth ICP Phase 2 and what it aims to achieve for the Australian vegetable industry.

In this InfoVeg Radio podcast, produced by AUSVEG, project leads Carl Larsen from RMCG and Gordon Rogers from Applied Horticultural Research provide an overview of Soil Wealth ICP Phase 2 and what it aims to achieve for the Australian vegetable industry.

The HortCarbon Info web tool provides business managers with an accurate, repeatable and established methodology to quantify the level, as well as the changes to their business carbon footprint, based on current recognised Australian Greenhouse emission standards.

In this edition: How to look after your soils for veg production, upcoming events and webinars, precision ag trial case study from Koo Wee Rup, Top 5 resources in 2022 and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

In this edition: Stay in control of diamondback moth, insights into soil health and soil biology, upcoming events and webinars, NSW demo site finger weeder trial, resources on Rhizoctonia Solani, soil microbiology and soil testing and interpretation, plus meet the Soil Wealth ICP team

In recent years in warmer areas of Australia where brassicas are grown, diamondback moth (DBM) has developed resistance to most available insecticides including the Group 28 insecticides. Resistance to the Group 28 insecticides has now been observed in southern states, including Victoria and Tasmania.

Dr Paul Horne from IPM Technologies explains what growers can expect for control of diamondback moth using integrated pest management (IPM).

Rhizoctonia Solani is a fungal pathogen comprised of many species and strains that can cause diseases in vegetable crops such as damping off, root and stem rots, and sometimes leaf blighting or leaf spots.

A finger weeder is a tool that allows growers to deal with weeds in the areas of the inter-row where other cultivation and sprays might miss them. It uses hard or soft rubber “fingers” that can be adjusted depending on the size of weeds and conditions.

As the Soil Wealth ICP project approaches the end of Phase 2, we're inviting growers and industry to help us design and deliver the next phase of the project over the coming years (Phase 3).

Soil Wealth ICP team member Dr Doris Blaesing contributed to the updated Fertcare Plant Sampling Guide, which is now available and includes significant changes to previous sampling notes.

In this edition: Share your thoughts on Soil Wealth ICP Phase 2, upcoming events and webinars, WA and SA field walk wrap-ups, resources on area wide management of lettuce viruses and irrigation management and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

In irrigated crops, especially in high rainfall areas with long cool wet seasons, managing weeds can be challenging.

Integrated weed management will lead to more effective control of weeds, particularly over the longer term.

WeedSmart’s Big 6 is a framework with a range of options and strategies to keep weed resistance at bay and the weed seed bank low. While it has been developed for grain producers; it is also relevant for vegetable production systems.

The NSW Environment Protection Authority has developed Cool Compost, an online resource centre for quality commercial compost.

Through a series of videos, podcasts, fact sheets and specifications Cool Compost showcases the benefits of compost across five target audiences – graziers, vegetable growers, landscapers, councils and government agencies.

In this edition: Maximising integrated pest management (IPM) practices in protected cropping, taking a whole systems approach to growing veg, high priority pests update, upcoming events and webinars, persistence and attention to detail pay off in IPM approach at Braham Produce, resources on IPM and area wide management of capsicum viruses and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

In this edition: How compost can help to tackle global challenges, new resources on area wide management of vegetable diseases, upcoming events and webinars, AVIS demo site panel discussion video, resources on vegetable and potato disease management and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

The Annual Vegetable Industry Seminar, held ahead of Hort Connections 2022 in Brisbane, attracted a room full of growers on Monday 6 June.

Presentations included a grower panel from the Soil Wealth ICP project which discussed the cutting-edge practices and technologies that are key to improving productivity, profitability and sustainability in the Australian vegetable industry.

A series of resources are now available on area wide management (AWM) of vegetable diseases.

AWM strategies for vector-borne diseases help to prevent or minimise the development of insecticide resistance in vector populations, improve the efficiency of biological agents released for control of vectors, and better protect host resistance genes against the emergence of resistance-breaking strains of the viruses.

Watch this webinar recording to hear from industry-leading researchers about the key findings and area wide management (AWM) strategies of insect-vectored viral and bacterial diseases of vegetable crops in Australia.

On 27 June, a group of growers and industry members attended an inaugural field walk at the Soil Wealth ICP demonstration site in the Northern Territory.

Hosted by grower Jeremy Trembath in Katherine, the demonstration site has focused on improving soil health and building soil resilience to weather events, particularly during the wet season, to prevent erosion and to protect soils.

To achieve this, Jeremy has used cover crops and reduced tillage in preparation for his sweet corn cash crop, and has utilised an integrated approach to pest, disease and weed management.

In this edition: Precision agriculture in vegetable production resources, a new approach to release beneficials, an updated snapshot of soil carbon, upcoming events and webinars, Top End field walk showcases soil health improvements and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

The slow-release of predatory mites using sachet technology is being trialled in Australia to improve commercial integrated pest management (IPM) practices.

Biological Services, a commercial insectary and beneficial insect provider based in South Australia, Western Australia and Queensland, is trialling the sachet packaging with the predator mite Cucumeris. This beneficial is effective in controlling thrips in crops such as cucumber, capsicum and eggplant.

In this edition: Update from Hort Connections 2022, entomology and IPM short courses, upcoming events and webinars, insights from demonstration site growers at the Annual Vegetable Industry Seminar, biological products resources, onion diseases webinar recording and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

The Annual Vegetable Industry Seminar, held ahead of Hort Connections 2022 in Brisbane, attracted a room full of growers on Monday 6 June.

Presentations included a grower panel from the Soil Wealth ICP project which discussed the cutting-edge practices and technologies that are key to improving productivity, profitability and sustainability in the Australian vegetable industry.

Soil Wealth ICP team members Dr Gordon Rogers and Carl Larsen facilitated the discussion with growers who currently or previously hosted demonstration sites as part of the project. The growers shared why they became involved in Soil Wealth ICP, the areas of soil management and plant health that their demonstration sites focused on, as well as the challenges they have faced and what’s next for their farms.

In this edition: Happy International Day of Plant Health, long-term benefits of using compost on plant and soil health, demo site growers at the Annual Vegetable Industry Seminar, Carl Larsen recognised for services to Vic veg growers, upcoming events and webinars, demonstration site news, getting the most out of compost resources and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

Underperforming agricultural soils cost Australian farmers billions of dollars in lost revenue each year – but the good news is that all is not yet lost for our soils.

This Partnership Network article explains how the Cooperative Research Centre for High Performance Soils (better known as the Soil CRC) is researching ways to build productive agricultural soils in Australia, including some exciting projects that will benefit vegetable and potato growers.

In this edition: Integrated weed management manual for vegetable growers, biostimulants market to boom by 2026, upcoming events and webinars, demonstration site news, improving phosphorus uptake efficiency in potatoes, strip-till resources and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

The University of New England has published the Australian vegetable industry’s first comprehensive integrated weed management (IWM) manual.

It provides information on the impacts of weeds, the principles of IWM, and the various methods that may be included in an IWM strategy depending on crops grown and farm circumstances.

In this edition: The importance of soil biodiversity, supporting Tassie researchers, upcoming events and webinars, demonstration site news from New South Wales, cover crop resources and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

The commercial nitrogen fertiliser market has been very volatile the past seven months. Supply issues from China, Russia, as well as Europe, have caused shipping issues and shortages for all of Australia. Australia does not manufacture enough nitrogen to supply its own domestic market.

Watch this webinar recording to hear from industry experts about best practice nitrogen management options in vegetable production.

Establishing a cover crop can be a great time to get on top of a problem weed without herbicides. See the Cover Crops for Australian Vegetable Growers poster for suggestions for cover crops to suppress weeds through quick establishment and/or dense canopies.

Herbicides combined with cover crops can be an additional tool in your Integrated Weed Management (IWM) strategy.

In this edition: The link between IPM and soil health, nominate a soil health champion, upcoming events and webinars, demonstration site news from South Australia, IPM grower resources and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

The commercial nitrogen fertiliser market has been very volatile the past seven months. Supply issues from China, Russia, as well as Europe, have caused shipping issues and shortages for all of Australia.

Given the price rises and uncertainty of nitrogen fertiliser supply, it’s a good time to look at legume cover crops.

In this edition: Learn from IPM leaders in the veg industry, upcoming events and webinars, demonstration site news from Victoria, new resources on carbon farming and soil carbon management, spray application basics, soil erosion machinery and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

The Soil Wealth ICP team developed this podcast as part of The Carbon Series: An introduction to carbon farming and soil carbon management in the Australian vegetable industry.

Hear more about Mulgowie Farming Company's journey to develop carbon neutral sweet corn in Queensland, which was certified by Carbon Friendly.

This four-part Carbon Series from the Soil Wealth ICP project breaks down the practicalities of carbon farming for vegetable growers and looks more closely at soil carbon management.

Part 1 provides an overview of carbon farming and its relevance to Australian vegetable growers.

This four-part Carbon Series from the Soil Wealth ICP project breaks down the practicalities of carbon farming for vegetable growers and looks more closely at soil carbon management.

Part 2 delves into soil carbon and carbon sequestration.

This four-part Carbon Series from the Soil Wealth ICP project breaks down the practicalities of carbon farming for vegetable growers and looks more closely at soil carbon management.

Part 3 discusses carbon emissions in vegetable production.

This four-part Carbon Series from the Soil Wealth ICP project breaks down the practicalities of carbon farming for vegetable growers and looks more closely at soil carbon management.

Part 4 takes you through carbon accounting and the Emissions Reduction Fund.

As compost is treated to kill human pathogens, it can be used freely on vegetable crops with no withholding periods. However, evidence of treatment must be provided.

Without this evidence, compost that contains manure (or other animal products) is considered “untreated”. It therefore attracts the same food safety restrictions as raw manure.

Compliant Compost is a new, simple code of practice that can be independently verified by approved auditors. The code is focused on demonstrating that the compost will not introduce human pathogens into the environment or onto food. Compost certified using the “compliant compost” program can therefore be used on farm without restriction.

After 30 years of growing vegetables in southern Queensland, Rob Hinrichsen is well placed to assess the impact of soil health on his farming operation.

Rob founded vegetable production and packing company Kalfresh with his father in the Fassifern Valley, with the operation having expanded considerably over the years to supply produce year-round.

The passion Rob brings for growing healthy, tasty, nutrient-rich food centres around healthy soils.

In this edition: Announcement of our 2022 focus topics, carbon management on vegetable farms webinar recording, upcoming events and webinars, demonstration site news from Western Australia and Victoria, new resources on sorghum cover crops, managing soil-borne diseases in vegetable crops and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

Day 2 of the Soil Biology Masterclass provided an opportunity for grower Andrew Braham to share his story of boosting soil biology and developing healthy soils for his capsicum crops in South Australia.

While checking on the precision agriculture trial at our Koo Wee Rup demonstration site, team member Carl Larsen recorded a short video to share how a remote weather station and attached soil moisture probe are providing practical insights to Inform irrigation scheduling decisions.

Day 2 of the Soil Biology Master Class featured a panel discussion on soil biology with Kelvin Montagu.

In this short video update, Soil Wealth ICP team member Carl Larsen explains how practical approaches such as cover crops and reduced tillage is complementing precision agriculture trials at our demonstration site in Koo Wee Rup, Victoria.

Carbon is the main component of soil organic matter and helps give soil its water-retention capacity, its structure, and its fertility. The management of carbon is not only important for soil health and productive vegetable crops, but is also increasingly important in carbon markets and reducing the effects of climate change.

Watch industry leading researchers, practitioners and growers who tackle some of the most important questions about carbon management on vegetable farms during this webinar.

Interest is growing around biochar as both a soil amendment and to increase carbon sequestration to soil.

This fact sheet explores what biochar is, how it can be used in vegetable production, what to consider if using biochar, and where you can get it.

Farming in the Northern Territory is notoriously challenging: it takes resilience and perseverance to battle the weather and soils.

The Soil Wealth ICP team is working with Jeremy Trembath to establish a new demonstration site on his farm in the Northern Territory. The site aims to build greater resilience to heavy weather events and soil erosion using cover crops, strip-til, soil biology inputs and non-chemical weed control.

While taking soil samples at our Koo Wee Rup demonstration site in Victoria recently, Soil Wealth ICP team member Carl Larsen recorded a short video about the key things to keep in mind to ensure you collect a quality soil sample for testing.

Soil Wealth ICP team member Pieter van Nieuwenhuyse delves into the use of biological products in Australian vegetable production.

In this edition: Soil Biology Masterclass videos, demonstration site news from the Northern Territory and Victoria, a fact sheet on the potential of biochar in vegetable production and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

Plant pathologist Dr Len Tesoriero joins the Soil Wealth ICP team presents on soil-borne disease suppression in vegetable crops.

Dr Shane Powell from the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture joins the Soil Wealth ICP team to share her expertise on soil fumigation and its effects on soil biological communities.

Soil Wealth ICP team member Doris Blaesing discusses soil biology and its links to soil structure in vegetable crops.

With a strong focus on innovation and sustainable farming practices, Mulgowie Farming Company has teamed up with Soil Wealth ICP to take their soil management to the next level.

Soil Wealth ICP team members Kelvin Montagu and Marc Hinderager discuss nitrogen availability in vegetable crops and its impact on soil biology.

In this edition: Virtual shed walk showcasing microwave weed technology, demonstration site news from Queensland and Victoria, new resources from the Soil Biology in Vegetable Production Masterclass, a go-to guide on nutrition management resources and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

Soil Wealth ICP team member Carl Larsen braved the windy weather at our Koo Wee Rup demonstration site in Victoria to bring growers a short update on how things were progressing at the site.

Soil Wealth ICP team member Kelvin Montagu looks at the linkage between key soil functions and soil biology, and the interactions between plant roots and soil biology.

Watch how microwave technology is being developed to assist with integrated crop protection.

Soil pH has a profound effect on nutrient availability to plants and microorganisms, and thus soil and plant health.

This fact sheet shares the results of a field trial in north-west Tasmania using several treatments to raise pH in an acidic soil and a cost benefit analysis.

In this edition: Soil Biology in Vegetable Production webinar recording, demonstration site news from Cowra, NSW, new resources on potential changes to integrated crop protection, pest management resources and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

Have you heard about native vegetation insectaries? Want to attract more beneficial insects to your crops to better manage pests?

This webinar explains how you can manage your fields and surrounding landscape for beneficial insects, including the benefits of planting native vegetation.

In this global scan we look at some of the changes affecting the integrated crop protection tools available to vegetable growers by examining what is happening elsewhere, globally and in other sectors.

Integrated crop protection (ICP) takes a holistic approach to plant health. It builds on the principles of integrated pest management (IPM) combined with site-specific soil, nutrition and irrigation management, and decision making based on relevant monitoring data and forecasting.

Watch this webinar recording to hear from international experts and get insights into the European ICP transition.

In this edition: soil your undies challenge, catch up on the Potato R&D Forum 2021, demo site trial report from Richmond, Tasmania, using drones to generate farm insights, updated Biological Products Database and meet the Soil Wealth ICP team.

The Cradle Coast Authority Natural Resource Management Agriculture program discussed hillslope erosion risk reduction using autumn cover cropping at an industry forum in Tasmania in August 2021. This presentation highlights the key considerations for growers.

There are many things we can take for granted, and in vegetable and potato production this can be as simple as nutrition and its impact on a crop from a plant physiology perspective.

However, growers and advisers armed with a deep knowledge of nutrition and its practical application in a crop are better placed to ensure that crop achieves peak production. We spoke to our Partnership Network member Stoller Australia to find out more.

Watch this recorded webinar to learn all you need to know about the legal requirements for drone operators and how drones can help you manage daily challenges including weed control, presented by John Coulombe from Drone Training Solutions.

In this edition: new weed management guides for growers, an update on Australia's agvet regulatory system review, upcoming events and webinars, demo site news from Tassie, a new guide on preventing leaf and stem diseases and more.

This guide gives a brief overview of plant disease, general methods of transmission and the conditions that foster key diseases of aboveground vegetable plant parts.

It’s rare to come across someone who is as passionate about soil health as Peter Wadewitz.

The founder and Managing Director of Peats Soil & Garden Supplies has dedicated the last 45 years to supplying compost, mulches and recycled organic resources to the horticulture, landscape and garden supplies industries in South Australia and interstate. The business operates on four sites across South Australia and recently expanded its presence to Darwin, South Africa and Qatar.

For Peter, it all starts with talking to growers about healthy soils, building organic matter and strengthening soil structure to produce a better crop.

In this edition: Soil Wealth ICP on show at Hort Connections 2021, global scan and review of remote sensing, webinar recording on soil organic matter, biology and mineralisation and a Partnership Network Profile on Peats Soil & Garden Supplies.

Kelvin Montagu visits the John Deere booth at Hort Connections 2021 in Brisbane to find out new innovations in precision agriculture.

Pieter Van Nieuwenhuyse speaks to Growave at Hort Connections 2021 in Brisbane to find out more about an innovative weed management solution using microwave technology.

AHR’s Marc Hinderager and Soilpack Services’ Ian Packer are teaming up to deliver a webinar on soil organic matter, soil biology and the challenges and complexity of estimating mineralisation rates in soils.

A video on how FOGO compost is made and why it is beneficial and safe to use in horticulture

In this edition: choosing the right lime product to manage soil acidification, EGVID2020 celebrated at industry awards, videos available from our Victorian demo sites and new resources on boosting mycorrhizal fungi in vegetable crops.

Vegetable and potato growers across Australia will be familiar with the name E.E. Muir & Sons, a national distributor of agricultural products for crop protection and nutrition with a strong focus on horticulture and irrigated cropping sectors.

What they may not be familiar with are the discussions and collaboration that happen behind the scenes to provide the best information on agronomy, trials and product development to growers.

Missed our virtual farm walk via Facebook Live in May 2021? Not to worry, you can catch up on the latest updates from our Werribee South VIC demonstration site here.

The vegetable industry has a growing interest in soil health and beneficial soil microbes, including mycorrhizal fungi. While there is a need for practices that help to boost the beneficial fungi in Australian vegetable crops, getting the benefits under commercial field conditions is not easy.

This case study examines why and how vegetable growers can boost beneficial mycorrhizal fungi in their crops. It also shares the results from a trial which looked at the potential of cover crops, together with commercial mycorrhizal inoculants and reduced soil tillage, to increase the beneficial fungi in vegetable crops.

Vegetable growers and industry members recently came together in South Australia to hear about pest and disease management.

In this edition: a new weed management guide for wild radish in the vegetable industry, nominate a leader in plant health and soil management at the Hort Connections National Awards for Excellence, farm walks to go virtual in Victoria and resources on reduced tillage.

The potential for cover crops to provide protection from erosion is multifaceted.

In this multisite trial in North West Tasmania, seasonal cover crops were used to protect bare fallow autumn and winter soils from erosion. Read more in this fact sheet.

In this edition: Information on fall armyworm and serpentine leafminer, demonstration site news from NSW and new resources on oxalis, volunteer potatoes and winter cover crops.

Grower Kim Ngov has sown another cover crop trial on his intense vegetable farm near the southwest outskirts of Sydney (Wedderburn NSW). This time Kim is focused on using cover crops to build soil health, control weeds and eliminate single-use plastic mulch.

See a list of helpful resources for vegetable growers to improve their biosecurity preparedness on-farm, particularly for new pest threats including serpentine leafminer and vegetable leafminer.

The addition of organic soil amendments is becoming increasingly popular in vegetable production. Organic amendments provide a range of benefits to farming systems from both a production and economic perspective.

Watch this informative webinar and hear from the research team on the project’s importance and recent developments.

There are many factors that contribute to strong environmental stewardship in the vegetable industry, and improving soil management and plant health is an important component of business sustainability. But when it comes to finding evidence of the strengths and gaps of your growing operation, it can be difficult to know where to start.

This article from our Partnership Network member EnviroVeg explains how the program can help growers identify these opportunities and take action to ensure their vegetable growing business is environmentally responsible.

In this edition: The future of integrated weed management technologies, demonstration site news from NSW and Victoria, new resources on healthy soils, blackleg in potato and drone regulations podcast.

This fact sheet is the third in a series of fact sheets on priority weed species and their integrated management in vegetables.

More commonly found in the southern parts of Australia, oxalis is an invasive weed of cultivated fields but is also found in no-till situations (e.g. roadsides and native landscapes).

Read how control measures in an integrated weed management (IWM) strategy should be undertaken prior to flowering stage for soursob and creeping oxalis.

This fact sheet is the second in a series of fact sheets on priority weed species and their integrated management in vegetables.

Read how an integrated weed management (IWM) strategy combining cultural measures, physical control where possible and chemical control is recommended to minimise volunteer potato plant pressure in the cash crop following a potato harvest.

iSQAPER has built an app for mobile devices which provides location-specific soil quality information and sustainable land use management options.

A multi-actor approach underpins the development of SQAPP - the app has been developed, tested, evaluated and improved by farmers, scientists, practitioners, agricultural service providers and policy makers.

iMapPESTS is a national program of research, development and extension designed to put actionable information into the hands of Australia’s primary producers to enhance on-farm pest management decision-making.

As the cost of production continues to rise and water quality becomes an increasing issue for vegetable growers across the country, precision agriculture technologies could play a key role in helping growers make more informed decisions on-farm. In this article, our Partnership Network member Metos explains the unlimited opportunities for the Australian vegetable industry to adopt these technologies.

Being part of a grower group has many benefits. It helps to be on the forefront of new developments in vegetable production and talk to other growers to share successes, challenges and support each other with new ideas.

A group of young growers have joined the Warren Improvement Group in Western Australia to provide a fresh focus on improving vegetable production in the Manjimup region. This case study explains more.

Victoria’s Werribee South vegetable growing region predominately produces brassicas and leafy greens. A relatively high salt concentration in irrigation water, combined with low annual rainfall and naturally sodic soils, presents a range of production challenges for vegetable growers.

A trial at our demonstration site was developed to improve crop resilience and investigate the impact of compost, gypsum and soluble calcium on salinity, sodicity effects on crops and overall soil health in the region. Find out more in this case study.

In this edition: Good Soils Guide, seasonal outlook for February to April, demonstration site news from Manjimup, Western Australia and Werribee South, Victoria, and new resources on choosing cover crops, organic soil amendments and spray rig calibration.

Wet and warm weather continues in 2021. Most vegetable regions are likely to see warmer and wetter than average conditions.

A healthy soil is productive, sustainable and profitable. But what exactly does 'soil health' mean for vegetable growers?

This fact sheet shares some top tips for vegetable growers when it comes to defining soil health.

Nematodes are used as biological indicators of soil health because the number and types present in a soil reflect changes in the microbes they consume, and the soil’s physical and chemical environment.

This fact sheet from Soil Quality provides a good overview of why nematodes are good biological indicators.

There are various ways to reduce erosion, including reducing how much water runs off and the speed of that flow.

This fact sheet provides information on a trial conducted at Forthside Vegetable Research Station at Forth in north western Tasmania, which compared three treatments with a control (no treatment) to reduce the amount of water moving down a hillslope.

Vegetable growers in Australia can now access a comprehensive online resource to improve all aspects of soil health on-farm and increase the efficiency and profitability of their businesses.

The Good Soil Guide is a free online encyclopaedia specifically designed for growers and industry to use in the field. The resource was developed in the United Kingdom as a collaboration between Yorkshire Water, Yorkshire supply chain consultancy Future Food Solutions and soil scientist Neil Fuller.

Integrated Weed Management (IWM) is vital for getting on top of weed problems in vegetable production, or for keeping the farm relatively weed-free. This webinar will look at the capacity of both summer and winter cover crops to out-compete weeds during non-cash cropping periods, reduce the weed seedbank and improve soil health.

In this edition: Focus topics announced for Soil Wealth ICP in 2021, demonstration site news from Richmond, Tasmania and new resources on foliar diseases, nutgrass, integrated weed management and pathogen DNA testing.

A vegetable grower based in Bundaberg, Queensland is continuing to grow his business and find new uses for drone applications in horticulture. Read this article to find out more about the novel ways that drones can help on-farm productivity and profitability.

This fact sheet provides guidance on the importance of monitoring soilborne diseases, pathogens that can be tested, method for pathogen testing and tips for understanding and managing soilborne disease risks.

This fact sheet is the first in a series of fact sheets on priority weed species and their integrated management in vegetables.

Read how an integrated weed management (IWM) strategy, including cultivation measures and chemical control, is the best approach for reducing nutgrass populations to a manageable level.

Integrated weed management (IWM) is vital for getting on top of weed problems in vegetable production. It involves combining all appropriate weed control options in a coordinated, supportive and flexible way. A key outcome of effective IWM in vegetable production is the reduction of the weed seed bank (the number of viable weed seeds present in the soil) to ensure that the weed burden is minimised.

Patience was indeed a virtue for Tasmania’s agriculture industry after the 2020 Precision Ag Expo successfully went ahead on Monday 2 November at Hagley Farm School, following a six-month delay.

Doris Blaesing from the Soil Wealth ICP team was also on hand to share information on the project’s activities, resources and outputs with attendees.

In this edition: 2020 Precision Ag Expo wrap-up, demonstration site findings from Katherine, Northern Territory and Koo Wee Rup, Victoria, and new resources including a soil microbiology fact sheet and advantages of Sunn hemp in veg production video.

An increased awareness of the impact of some long-standing farming practices and community expectations, combined with a greater interest and understanding of alternative systems and products has contributed to the evolution of sustainable vegetable production in Australia.

According to Soil Wealth ICP Partnership Network member and Sustainable Farming Solutions General Manager Steven David, while progress has been made in Australian organic production in particular, there is still room for expansion.

Now in the third year of trials, the benefit of variable rate lime and fertiliser application is starting to pay big dividends at our Koo Wee Rup demonstration site in Victoria.

The 2020 class of Agriculture Science Honours students at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture recently presented the findings from their final projects, many of which were relevant to growers in the vegetable industry.

Soil health is closely linked to soil microbiology. This fact sheet outlines information on a broad group of soil microbes including fungi, bacteria and pseudomonas, and explains how different levels, numbers and ratios of these microbes can impact the overall health of your soil and crops.

A project led by the Queensland University of Technology is focusing on providing farmers, agronomists and suppliers of manures and composts with a decision support tool for integrating organic amendments into farm nutrient budgets.

In February 2020, six cover crop demonstration sites were planted in the lead-up to the Tasmanian Agricultural Productivity Group's Precision Ag Expo. Take a look at the summary of results from the trial which focused on nematode suppression, feed production, weed suppression, soil conditioning, pathogen control and nitrogen fixation.

In this edition: New guide to brassica biofumigant cover crops, seasonal outlook for vegetable growing areas, demonstration site findings from Manjimup, Western Australia and Koo Wee Rup, Victoria, and new resources including a poster on the ins and outs of variable rate application.

Recycled organics are compostable organic materials, including garden organics, food waste, residual wood and timber. Recycled organics compost is derived from shredding and stockpiling these green wastes for up to six months before being screened to remove contaminants and create a compost high in organic matter, essential nutrients and beneficial bacteria.

Compost made from recycled organics is an effective, long-term soil conditioner against drought. Recycled organics will improve the water use efficiency of a farm by capturing more water and holding it for longer.

Over time, an increase in organic matter will improve water holding capacity, soil structure, soil porosity and hydraulic conductivity. Recycled organics applied to the soil surface will also reduce soil crusting and improve water infiltration.



This project is supported by the NSW Environment Protection Authority as part of Waste Less, Recycle More, funded from the waste levy.

Recycled organics are compostable organic materials, including garden organics, food waste, residual wood and timber. Compost made from recycled organics is derived from shredding and stockpiling these green materials for up to six months before being screened to remove contaminants and create a compost high in organic matter, essential nutrients and beneficial bacteria.

With assistance from the Soil Wealth project team, the Three Ryans, located at Manjimup, WA, decided to try the cover crop + strip till combo to see what benefits there are for their vegetable farm. So, an on-farm strip till demonstration plot was established in a broccoli crop. This has seen cost savings and soil benefits, compared to their conventionally grown broccoli crop.

The peculiar year 2020 will end wetter than average for most regions. Some regions might face warmer days. Key is to get on top of your irrigation in the following months.

Biopesticides are a diverse group of pest control products based on naturally occurring biochemicals, minerals and microbes. They generally have very low toxicity to humans and are sustainable with minimal environmental impacts. Many can be used in organic production.

Watch this interactive webinar recording to hear from leading international researchers from Lincoln University (NZ) and The University of Queensland (AU).

Drones are becoming a useful tool in the fight against weeds, insect pests and diseases. This aricle highlights some of the benefits from using drones to spray herbicides quickly and efficiently on a farm in Bundaberg, Queensland.

In this edition: Have your say on Soil Wealth ICP, demonstration site news from Gingin, Western Australia and a new guide to useful project resources.

This poster provides a snapshot of variable rate application, the options available, why and how to do it, key questions to keep in mind and more information on the practical tips and tools available.

As the weather begins to warm up and we look towards the summer growing season, it’s a good time to prepare for your upcoming irrigation requirements. In this article, SWAN Systems shares some key considerations to get the best results from irrigation scheduling software over summer, as well as insights from a trial at Harvest Farms in Richmond, Tasmania.

In 2018 and 2019, the University of New England worked with Ivankovich Farms in Myalup and David Grays Aglink in Perth, Western Australia, on a two-season trial to explore the effects of different winter cover crop varieties in suppressing weeds in vegetable production.

The Loose Leaf Lettuce Company in Gingin, Western Australia, has been successful in reducing their weed burden to a minimal level after several years of diligently using a simple but very effective integrated approach.

A series of guides are available to vegetable growers and agronomists to provide a better understanding of the best ways to use pesticides in an Integrated Pest Management Program to maximise the impact of beneficial species.

Looking for information on cadmium in agriculture? Australian scientist Professor Mike McLaughlin has recently refreshed content including reports and best management practice guides produced by the work of the National Cadmium Minimisation Strategy between 2002 and 2006. This information is now maintained and updated by Fertilizer Australia.

Over two days, 36 vegetable growers and agronomists across Australia took part in an interactive event which built on their existing knowledge and helped to improve their crop nutrition programs on-farm, particularly during difficult growing conditions.

In this edition: Vegetable Crop Nutrition Masterclass an online success, demonstration site news from Sydney Basin and Cowra, NSW, and new resources on pink rot in potatoes.

The integration of remote sensing in daily farm management is a hot topic driven by the evolving range of applications through the Internet of Things (IoT). In this article, start-up company Hummingbird Technologies describes how the technologies in the Artificial Intelligence and remote sensing space can help vegetable growers to make the right decisions for weed control and harvest prediction. 

The Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) has produced a series of videos focusing on precision agriculture in vegetable production.

Dr Jenny Ekman will outline the pre-harvest and postharvest technologies and techniques needed to overcome broccoli’s short storage life, and discuss how to keep customers happy and coming back for more.

In this two part video series, the University of New England presents the results from a recent trial which explored the effects of diferent cover crops in suppressing weeds in vegetable production at Greater Sydney Local Land Services' Demonstration Farm in the Richmond Lowlands, New South Wales.

Soil biology is a complex, dynamic and broad field. This podcast will introduce you to the concept of why biology is important to soil fertility and maximising crop production.

A new series of ‘Sustainable Success Stories’ from the South Australian vegetable industry showcase how local leaders are engaging with industry-led programs to overcome farm challenges and improve their sustainability. Take a look at the five case studies below.

In this edition: Get effective R&D support in a remote setting, demonstration site news from Victoria and Bathurst, NSW, and new resources on managing salinity in potato and vegetable production.

As the use of biological crop products increases in the Australian vegetable industry, it is essential that growers have a clear understanding of soil biology and how these products can work effectively. This includes the role of mycorrhizae and how it can impact the quality and yield of a crop.

Agronomist, Marc Hinderager, has been working with the growers in Cowra and reports on the results of this cover crop trial.

Headquartered in Melbourne’s Werribee South region, Fresh Select is one of the largest lettuce and brassica growers in Australia. As a leader in innovation, sustainable farming techniques and responsible practices, the company is also one of the first to trial precision agriculture technologies in vegetables.

Managing plant nutrition is integral to producing a healthy, profitable vegetable crop. The Soil Wealth ICP team has collated a range of informative resources to help growers, advisors and other vegetable industry service providers to better manage crop-specific nutrition.

In this edition: Have your say on agvet chemicals review, demonstration site news from Bathurst, NSW and Tasmania, and new resources on nutrition management support.

Tasmanian vegetable and potato grower Yuri Wolfert provides an update on his cover crop, which was planted five weeks ago to prepare the soil for next season's potato crop.

Most good crop management practices begin with the soil. Enhancing natural populations of beneficial soil organisms can aid in the growth and establishment of crops, as well as improve soil health and sustainability.

In this edition: Soil Wealth ICP broadcasts live from East Gippsland Vegetable Innovation Days, demonstration site news from Koo Wee Rup, VIC and Cowra, NSW, and new resources on control of post-harvest bacterial soft rots in potatoes.

Sodicity is different to salinity, but it can still have a negative impact on soil structure and crop growth.

This fact sheet explains what sodicity is and how it differs to salinity; how to identify sodicity in soils and its impact on soil and crops, as well as management options.

The Soil Wealth ICP team was pleased to support the 2020 East Gippsland Vegetable Innovation Days (EGVID), which were held from 5-7 May in Lindenow.

Spanning over two hectares, the EGVID demonstration site offered countless rows of more than 20 vegetable crop types and around 2000 different varieties in total, ranging from lettuce and baby leaf varieties to broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and more – all growing strongly (thanks to some recent rainfall) and ready for data capture and dissemination.

During the week, the Soil Wealth ICP team organised live streams of the agri-chemical and seed trials at the site alongside event organisers and agronomists Stuart Grigg and Noel Jansz.

Join Dr Kelvin Montagu (AHR, Soil Wealth ICP team), John Duff (Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries) and Carl Larsen (RMCG, Soil Wealth ICP team) as they discuss the results of a cover crop trial at the East Gippsland Vegetable Innovation Days.

The team will discuss the different cover crop species used in the trial, their benefits and best options for use, as well as any drawbacks around terminations.

Earthworms are known to be an indicator of healthy soil function, with the ability to improve soil structure and fertility as well as promote root and plant growth.

In 2019, the University of New England completed a case study assessment of the farm-level impacts of weeds in vegetable production, as part of Hort Innovation-funded project VG15070.

This article summarises the key results of its recently published report, Economics of weed management in the Australian vegetable industry. This was the first time a detailed economic analysis of weed impact and management has been completed at the farm-level in Australia’s vegetable industry.

In this edition: Spotlight on soil biology and integrated weed management, demonstration site news from Tasmania and new resources on nitrate field testing and taking soil samples.

From April to June is ‘redback season’, where consumer complaints about redback spiders in broccoli and, to a lesser extent, other vegetables, are most likely to surface on social media near you.

Where do they come from? Why are they here? And, most importantly, what can I do about it? These questions and more will be answered in an AHR webinar featuring Dr Jenny Ekman.

This is a recording of a VegNET Tasmania webinar in the autumn of 2020.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) will change the way we do our work, but as we still have important work to do, it can’t be allowed to stop our work. It is crucial that we continue to support growers, advisors and other industry stakeholders with the best available research and development (R&D) extension services, products and communication on improved soil management and plant health in the Australian vegetable industry.

Click here for your expert contact for each of the technical areas / problems.

This fact sheet provides an overview, identification, symptoms and economic impact of key viruses infecting Brassicas, including Turnip mosaic virus, Turnip yellows virus, Cauliflower mosaic virus.

Produced by the Hort Innovation project team VG16086 – Area wide management of vegetable diseases: virus and bacteria.

Controlling pest species can be complex. Insect pests can be particularly hard to control due to their mobility and their ability to use different plants as hosts. They may also act as vectors for disease.

One approach to control a pest is Area Wide Management (AWM).

Soil sampling and testing is usually done prior to planting a crop; specific in-crop testing can be useful e.g. testing for available nitrate and ammonium.

A soil test report is only as good as the care taken in sampling. Tools and equipment should be cleaned prior to collecting each sample. Completing labels and writing on bags or containers before going out to the field can save some time and confusion.

Read this fact sheet for guidance on how to take soil samples correctly and obtain reliable information on the nutrient status of your soil.

Testing for soil nitrate is important to manage nitrogen availability in vegetable crops to ensure optimal yield and quality.

This simple and easy to use guide has been developed to show how a quick nitrate test can be conducted in the field.

Irrigation and water management remains of paramount importance, as the Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a drier and hotter than average remainder of summer. This comes after the dry year 2019 with some vegetable growing regions receiving less than half of their usual rainfall (see figure below).

What are the key projects currently underway that can add value or solve a problem in your vegetable growing business?

Get all the latest updates in this R&D update booklet, with a two-page snapshot across 17 of the most significant projects around Australia that cover everying from soils, weeds, consumer insights and leadership.

Soilborne diseases are a major limiting factor for the Australian vegetable industry and are costly and difficult to manage. Previous research has highlighted that practical and economic methods of disease control are limited once a crop has been established. Knowing the disease risk prior to planting allows growers to make informed crop management decisions.

As crop growth and water use increase with the warmer weather, it’s a good time to think about getting on top of irrigation management and reviewing your water availability.

Watch this webinar, hosted by VegNET, for a Victoria specific focus on the summer weather outlook, water availability north of the divide and preparation of irrigation systems.

There are many brassica species and cultivars that can be grown as biofumigants or cover crops. These brassicas are typically thought of as cool seasons options but work by the cover crop project has looked at how they perform across the year in southern Queensland. And some results will surprise!

Part 2 of the webinar looks at the potential pest and disease issues while growing the cover crops and the potential impact on soil-bourne disesases (Sclerotium rolfsii, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum & Macrophomina phaseolina) following incorporation.

Watch this webinar with Dr John Duff and Kelvin Montagu who summarise the results of trials growing more than 12 different biofumigants at different times of the year in Gatton and Bundaberg. 

There are many brassica species and cultivars that can be grown as biofumigants or cover crops. These brassicas are typically thought of as cool seasons options but work by the cover crop project has looked at how they perform across the year in southern Queensland. And some results will surprise!

Part 1 of the webinar looks at the growth of 17 different biofumigant cover crops and the levels of glucosinolates.

Watch this webinar with Dr John Duff and Kelvin Montagu who summarise the results of trials growing more than 12 different biofumigants at different times of the year in Gatton and Bundaberg. 

Salinity issues can appear in all major vegetable production areas; they can come and go depending on weather and changes in water quality. It can occur naturally or as a result of management practices.

Watch this interactive webinar and hear from industry experts on good salinity management practices on farm, salinity thresholds for vegetables, how salinity can be identified and measured, as well as appropriate EC ranges for soils and water.

NRM North Tasmania Agriculture Landcare Facilitator, Adrian James, visited M.G Farm to film the healthy soil resulting from green manure. See and hear some of the benefits for yourself.

The Soils in Action project was run by AUSVEG SA from early to mid 2019 on the Northern Adelaide Plains. The objective was to establish two demonstration trial sites to showcase compost use in commercial vegetable production to improve soil health and reduce the use of inputs e.g. of fertilisers and irrigation water.

Read this case study to find out more about the trial results and the benefits the two growers realised in a field and greenhouse system.

Phosphorus (P) is a major element (macronutrient) that plays a number of important roles in plants, such as productivity, crop quality, increased root growth, and earlier crop maturity. It is necessary for proper cell division and formation of new cells. It's important that soil P is managed correctly for crop nutrition.

This fact sheet covers the common characteristics of soil P and its availability for uptake by plants such as pH, mobility and microbial activity, and provides practical management tips and tools in line with the ‘4Rs’ - right source at the right rate, right time, right place.

Vegetable crop diseases are often caused by fungi. Examples of foliar diseases caused by fungi include: downy mildew, powdery mildew and white blister. Examples of soilborne fungal diseases include: clubroot and diseases cause by Pythium, Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Sclerotinia and Sclerotium species.

Fungicide resistance occurs when a fungicide or active-ingredient that was once effective, becomes no longer effective. It can occur when reduced rates of fungicides are used or when fungicides are over-used.

Read this fact sheet to find out more about detection and effective management.

When irrigating vegetable crops, the use of poor water quality can affect both the crop and soil in which the plants are growing.

Water analysis is a valuable tool for determining potential or existing salinity problems, developing irrigation strategies, and verifying toxicities or mineral imbalances.

This fact sheet covers the water quality parameters you should know about, like salinity, sodicity, calcium carbonate and other macronutrients.

The rising cost of fertiliser inputs and a greater understanding of the importance of soil health has prompted interest in the use of composts as a soil ameliorant. What exactly are composts and why would you use them in a vegetable production system?

This fact sheet provides a summary ‘breakdown’ on the current knowledge of the benefits and risks of composts, with links to further information available.

Recent surveys of Tasmanian ryegrass (Lolium spp.) populations have shown a significant increase in Group A herbicide resistance. John Broster (Charles Sturt University) found an increase in resistance from 18% in 2010 to 46% in 2015 to diclofop-methyl ‘Fop’ and sethoxydim ‘Dim’ herbicides.

The selection of resistant weeds can occur in just 3-4 years if herbicide groups (Modes of Action) are not rotated. Read this fact sheet for an overview of herbicide resistance and what you can do to avoid and minimise the risk of resistance developing.

Recycled water is used in nearly all Australian states for vegetable production. Recycled water irrigation schemes offer a number of benefits.

Need to know more about irrigating with recycled water? Then check out this fact sheet that provides a practical overview on the guidelines for recycled water, potential issues, nutrients and further information.

Although, historically, area wide management (AWM) has been mostly applied to management of insect pests, it also has potential for controlling plant diseases, particularly those with aerial dispersal mechanisms such as insect- vectored viruses and bacteria. This type of management is contrasted with traditional management, essentially by scale and co-ordination. In AWM control tactics are applied over a broad area, incorporating multiple premises to maintain pest and pathogen populations below economic impact levels.

Biosecurity planning provides a mechanism for the vegetable industry, government and other relevant stakeholders to actively determine pests of high priority, analyse the risks they pose and implement procedures to reduce the chance of pests becoming established. AUSVEG delivers a number of extension projects with a core biosecurity focus, in addition to project partners like Plant Health Australia.

Precision agriculture (PA) technologies have been widely adopted throughout various agricultural industries in Australia, but what exactly is PA, and what benefits can it provide the Australian vegetable industry? This fact sheet provides information on the different types of technologies that are available, what they do, and how they have the potential to benefit your farming system.

The Precision Agriculture (PA) Project was an on-farm research, demonstration and extension project funded by the Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment under the Cultivating Prosperity: A 2050 Vision for Agriculture grant program.

The goal of the project was to boost farm productivity in Tasmania using precision agriculture technologies. This fact sheet provides a great overview of the PA tool used (including yield monitoring, imagery, soil mapping, and digital elevation modelling), results, and key factors for progress.

Most new technology for controlling weeds will be a positive step forward for soil health and the environment, and will play an important role in our fight against herbicide resistant weeds.

Watch this interactive session to hear from leading industry experts on some of the most interesting and practical advances in weed management.

Beet cyst nematode (Heterodera schachtii) can cause considerable yield loss to brassicas, beets, rhubarb and spinach. The nematode severely damages root systems, especially during the summer months. Beet cyst nematode also infects many common weeds such as wild turnip, shepherd’s purse, fat- hen and portulaca, where it can survive and infect the next vegetable crop planted.

Read this fact sheet to find out more about control of beet cyst nematode, as well as key symptoms and life cycle.

Salinity issues can appear in all major vegetable production areas; they can come and go depending on weather and changes in water quality. It can occur naturally or as a result of management practices.

Read this fact sheet to find out more about good salinity management practices on farm, salinity thresholds for vegetables, how salinity can be identified and measured, as well as appropriate EC ranges for soils and water.

Get inspired by this podcast with Dr Kelvin Montagu who gives a good overview on cover cropping, the key benefits for using it on your farm – for your wallet and for your soil health – as well as some handy tips and methods for doing it successfully.

The 9 minute podcast provides
1. an overview of cover cropping
2. benefits of cover cropping
3. typical types of cover crops
4. how quickly can you see benefits
5. what savings can you expect
6. top tips

the podcast is part of VG16068 Optimising cover cropping for the Australian vegetable industry

Over the past decade, the agricultural industry has seen a significant increase in publicly available remote sensing imagery and data. This technology is more accessible than ever, where users can access a wide range of information that can be implemented into their farming businesses, with the help of service providers and various commercially available platforms.

In this global scan, we address the types of remote sensing available, and its applications to vegetable production systems. Remote sensing is a type of geospatial technology that sits alongside Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning System (GPS) technologies.

Farm biosecurity is an intergral part of crop protection and plant health. Learn more about this set of measures designed to protect a property from the entry and spread of pests and diseases.

As agricultural systems forge toward a large-scale, complex, tech-savvy future, where should you look for new technologies and what questions should you be asking?

The Soil Wealth ICP have scanned the watchlist of 24 emerging technologies detected by Agrifutures in 2018 to determine how tech change will influence your vegetable growing business. This global scan and review covers the newest global innovations in technology, how they are being applied, and what we should be looking for.

Soil-borne diseases present an ongoing challenge to the Australian vegetable industry, with an estimated $120 million in losses annually.

Soil-borne diseases may be caused by fungi, bacteria, water moulds, nematodes and viruses living in the soil. These pathogens are able to survive for long periods on plant debris, organic matter or sometimes as free-living organisms, i.e. not requiring a plant host. The ability to survive for long periods in the soil, and often having a wide host range, makes control of soil-borne diseases difficult.

Lyndon Orpwood from Simplot Australia (Bathurst, NSW) explains how strip-tillage has improved moisture retention and field productivity. The benefits include stubble retention, greater efficiency and reduced diesel usage.

The Soil Wealth ICP team look at how Harvest Moon, a large volume vegetable producer in North West Tasmania, are using cover crops to protect and improve their precious red soil.

When was the last time you checked your spray rig? Correct calibration can save you time, money and increase the effective application of chemicals and reduce risk to the environment and your staff.

This practical and useful poster can be displayed in the chemical storage area and spray rig shed on your farm as an important reminder for you and your employees.

Print off a copy or request one in the post today!

Clubroot is one of the most destructive diseases of brassicas globally. Although it was detected in Australia as early as the 1890s, Plasmodiophora brassicae, the pathogen that produces clubroot, caused widespread loss during the 1980s and 1990s due to increasing brassica production and use of transplants.

Read this fact sheet to find out more about why clubroot is a problem, what to do about it, costs, as well as future directions for research.

Hear from industry experts on how strip-till will save you fuel and time, increase soil organic matter, reduce erosion and compaction, and how fertilisers can be banded at multiple depths.

The Cowra demonstration site in southern NSW is focussed on improving soil health through cover crops and improved tillage.

Read this update to find out more about the soil moisture monitoring results for summer 2019 following a ryecorn cover crop being sown in winter 2018.

The Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection case study demo site in north west Tasmania is Harvest Moon. This fact sheet showcases one of the practices employed at Harvest Moon, the ripper mulcher, which is used to manage the risk of soil erosion.

Vegetable cropping can leave topsoil vulnerable to significant erosion, and the ripper mulchers are free for Tasmanian growers to borrow and use.

Dr Kelvin Montagu demonstrates the erosion control benefits of strip-tillage in vegetable production.

Redback spiders love a hot, dry summer ...

From April to June is ‘redback season', where consumer complaints about redback spiders in broccoli are most likely to surface on social media near you.

Where do they come from? Why are they here? And, most importantly, What can I do about it? These questions and more will be answered by an AHR Webinar featuring Dr Jenny Ekman.

Choosing when to spray based on the prevailing wind speed is important for effectively applying chemicals and managing risk. This practical and useful poster can be displayed in the chemical storage area and spray rig shed on your farm as an important reminder for you and your employees.

Print off a copy or request one in the post today!

The Soil Wealth ICP project presents this podcast about controlled traffic farming, featuring the best practice agriculture of Tasmanian vegetable growing operation Harvest Moon.

The ripper mulcher is unique machine invented and built in Tasmania by Bill Cotching to control erosion on sloping ground under cultivation.

Listen to this podcast of the webinar recording with with Bruce Scott & Dr Doris Blaesing.

Listen to this podcast of the the webinar recording by Dr Len Tesoriero.

Soil acidification, the drop in soil pH, is due to several factors including leaching of nitrate nitrogen, nutrient uptake by crops and root exudates, build-up of soil organic matter and use of nitrogenous fertilisers containing ammonium and urea.

Choosing the right lime product and applying it at the correct rate is important in managing soil acidification and the subsequent impact on vegetable crops.

Read this useful fact sheet to find out more about the causes and effects of soil acidification, how liming increases soil pH differently depending on your soil type, different products, as well as managing paddock variability.

The Soil Wealth and ICP project is scanning global technologies to bring you some of the most interesting and practical advances in weed management. Most new technology for controlling weeds will be a positive step forward for soil health and the environment, and will play an important role in our fight against herbicide resistant weeds.

This global scan and review provides guidance on non-selective fallow paddock weed control, as well as selective In-crop weed control, and delivery technology.

When is the best time to spray during summer? What will maximise the effectiveness of the chemical and reduce off-target risk? Nufarm have developed this easy to follow poster to guide when to spray in summer and the key considerations around time of day.

And remember - always follow label instructions.

Strip-till is a system of cultivation that works strips of soil where the crop will be planted or sown and leaves most of the soil covered and undisturbed.

Watch this video to find out more about the benefits and challenges of using strip tillage in vegetable production systems, as well as testimonials from growers.

Looking to reduce establishment costs, improve your soil and save some time? Then have a look at strip-till this year.

Read this article to find out more about the benefits of stip-till, improvements to soil health, challenges, and what growers are saying after using stip-till.

Strip-till is a system of cultivation that works strips of soil where the crop will be planted or sown and leaves most of the soil covered and undisturbed.

Read this fact sheet to find out more about the benefits and challenges of strip-till, as well practical considerations out in the paddock.

As part of its levy-funded project navigating the wealth of soil health information available to growers, the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture has undertaken a series of interviews with growers from around Australia to provide insights into what they're doing to manage the most valuable resource on their farms: their soil.

In this video, Tasmanian grower James Addison discusses the value of cover cropping in maintaining soil health and increasing productivity in potato production.

Using water efficiently means applying enough water to meet the needs of the crop - not more, not less.

A soil in good condition consists of around 50% solid matter; this includes organic matter. The remaining space should be half filled with air and half with water. Organic matter is the main driver of soil health.

Read this practical fact sheet for guidance on readily available water (RAW) and soil texture, as well as healthy soil conditions.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) refers to the combination of chemical, cultural and biological options for controlling insect pests in Australian vegetable crops.

Watch this informative and interactive one-hour session to get the latest updates from vegetable industry experts, including IPM Technologies, E.E. Muir & Sons and Schreurs & Sons.

Phosphorus is one of the most common elements found in plants, usually ranking 8th after carbon, oxygen, hydrogen (which combined make up around 95% of plant dry matter), nitrogen, potassium, silicon and calcium. Unlike these other 7 elements, phosphorus is almost universally deficient in unfertilised soils in south-eastern parts of Australia.

Read this excellent concise literature review by Glenn Bailey to learn more about how phosphorus behaves in the soil, including fixing reactions, buffer capacity, available phosphorus, soil reserves, plant requirements and leaching.

Since 2016 there have been numerous customer complaints about redback spiders (Latrodectus hasselti) in broccoli. Complaints have mainly come between January and June, and from customers in all Australian states. This suggests that this is not an issue for a single production area, but can occur anywhere that broccoli is grown.

Redback spiders are clearly unacceptable to consumers, and also pose risks to growers, pickers and packers.

Despite their fearsome reputation, redback spiders are generally timid. They are nocturnal, travel only short distances and need protection from wind, rain and extremes of temperatures. Broccoli crops are not their usual habitat.

This fact sheet summarises what we know about the risk of redback spiders contaminating broccoli.

Trialling different management practices, technologies or varieties on-farm is a great way to 'road test' the change before implementing at a larger scale.

Read this fact sheet for further guidance on planning, choosing sites and data collection for designing your on-farm trial. There's also a handy trial protocol checklist provided to make sure you're covering the right information.

Labile carbon is the carbon most readily available as a carbon and energy source to microorganisms.

Read this fact sheet to find out more about labile carbon and its use as a 'leading indicator' of soil health, as well as undertaking your own labile carbon field test to see for yourself.

Organic amendments are mostly applied pre-planting of cash or cover crops, and always contain carbon and all major nutrients (N, P, S and K).

Read this global scan and review, the first in a series, that covers what organic soil amendments are, why and how to use them, the effects on soils and crops, as well as other specific considerations. Further research, development and extension needs are also identified for future guidance.

A short video presented by Dr Len Tesoriero on the identification, causes and management of club root.

Vegetable growers and their advisers have identified soilborne diseases as one of their main challenges. Soilborne diseases cost Australia’s $4 billion vegetable industry an estimated $120 million each year.

This paper outlines the main soilborne diseases affecting major Australian vegetable crops and determine RD&E activities, and was included in the 10th Australasian Soilborne Diseases Symposium proceedings in 2018.

A short video presented by Dr Len Tesoriero on the identification, causes and management of black rot.

Fusarium is a genus of common soilborne fungi. Most live as saprophytes on decaying plant matter while a few are also important plant pathogens.

While there are many different pathogenic Fusarium species, some of the most damaging diseases are caused by strains of one species complex, Fusarium oxysporum. They cause vascular wilt diseases by entering the roots and colonising the water-conducting tissue (xylem). This causes older leaves to yellow and plants eventually wilt and die.

For more information read this practical fact sheet on fusarium wilt diseases, factors that favour fusarium diseases, and management strategies.

Clubroot is one of the most potentially devastating soil borne diseases affecting brassica vegetables (e.g. cabbages, cauliflower, broccoli, kale and Brussels sprouts) in Australia. Once plants are infected there are no effective control measures.

Read this fact sheet to find out more about identifying clubroot, clubroot management strategies including integrated approaches, as well as evaluating clubroot risk.

Robotics and intelligent systems are used throughout various agricultural industries to control, monitor and improve farming systems. The development of various systems to aid in increasing the economic performance of farms is prevalent in both Australia and internationally.

Watch this informative and interactive one-hour session to get the latest updates from vegetable industry experts, including leaders from the University of Sydney, Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, and DataFarming.

Read this update from the VG16009 project team being led by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Highlights include findings and next steps from the demonstration sites in Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales and Tasmania.

Soilborne diseases pose a significant threat to vegetable crop health and losses. Disease pressure and prevalence is influenced by a number of factors including block selection, crop rotation, varieties, nutrition, irrigation and fumigation.

Watch this informative and practical session to get the latest updates from Dr Michael Rettke, South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) and Dr Doris Blaesing, RMCG.

Hort Innovation supports research in sensing and digital technologies to improve irrigation decision-making for vegetable producers.

Identifying new ways to optimise irrigation is key to the ongoing success and sustainability of irrigated farming in Australia.

The rise of agricultural technology is seeing tailored farming solutions that marry microclimate sensors with data intelligence to provide accurate insight into the crop and soil water balance. By providing real-time information about what is happening in each crop, these emerging technologies can help growers make faster, more accurate irrigation decisions by backing up gut feel with hard evidence.

DataFarming’s innovative software platform is backed by over 20 years of hands on experience solving agricultural problems in the real world.

Through cloud-based systems, farm data, and satellite technology, DataFarming deliver simple data solutions to drive farm productivity across all production factors, gaining valuable insights into the agricultural industry.

The University of New England are undertaking a four-year research program which aims to help safeguard the vegetable industry by reducing its dependence on herbicides and tillage for weed control.

Created through the Horticulture Innovation Centre for Robotics and Intelligent Systems at the University of Sydney's internationally-recognised Australian Centre for Field Robotics, RIPPA aims to benefit the vegetable industry by automating a number of existing farm management tasks.

Area-Wide Management (AWM) is a proven management approach for mobile pests around the world, employing a united strategy to target all pest habitats within a well-defined area or region to reduce the total pest population. These guidelines will help you understand AWM, how to get started implementing it for Queensland fruit fly, and the opportunities to implement Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) once AWM has been successfully implemented.

Videos and Best practice guide

Fruit flies are recognised as one of the world’s most serious pests for horticulture. They can breed rapidly, disperse widely and successfully infest most fruit and fruiting vegetables. The larvae not only destroy infested fruit, but are a major quarantine issue for both domestic and international markets.

Are you a grower, employee, or trainer in the vegetable industry? VegPRO is an industry education and training initiative that’s role is to provide training, resources, and tools to the Vegetable industry. Whether training is existing or just an idea, we’re here to support your training needs.
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The CRC for High Performance Soils (Soil CRC) is bringing together scientists, industry and farmers to find practical solutions for Australia’s underperforming soils.

Chemicals play an important role in vegetable production and are regularly used to control insect pests, diseases and weeds.

Watch this informative and interactive one-hour webinar to get the latest updates from vegetable industry experts in Australia.

EnviroVeg is an industry-led environmental best-practice management program for vegetable production businesses. It provides resources for sustainable growing techniques and represents vegetable businesses as responsible stewards of land, water and biodiversity.

Plant biosecurity is a series of measures that aid in protecting production areas from harmful insects, weeds, and various plant diseases.

Watch this informative and interactive one-hour webinar to get the latest updates from vegetable industry experts in Australia.

The Soils Network of Knowledge (SNoK) faciliatated a webinar on replicated small plot field experiments with Steve Morris from NSW Department of Primary Industries.

Watch this webianr to find out more about the complexities of field research design and the logical case for undertaking field research in a structured manner.

Some of the advantages of buckwheat include rapid growth, strong weed suppression and quick breakdown of residues, allowing it to fit into tight rotations and certain crops like baby leaf.

Watch this video to find out more.

Watch this webinar recording to learn about the latest techniques in managing the soilborne disease Fusarium wilt in vegetable crops including solanaceous, legumes, cucurbits and sweet potatoes and to understand the latest ways of managing this disease to keep your plants in production for longer and improve yield and pack out rates.

This guide summarises useful information developed by the Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection (ICP) Phase 1 projects from 2014-2017, and where to find it. These resources are relevant to all major vegetable growing regions in Australia. The resources developed includes fact sheets (51), case studies (12), videos and apps (36), e-newsletters (32 editions), as well as demonstration site information. The main topics covered by these resources include crop management, pest and disease management, and soil, nutrition and compost.

All the resources in this guide can be found on this project website.

Biopesticides are a diverse group of pest control products based on naturally occurring biochemicals, minerals and microbes. They generally have very low toxicity to humans and are sustainable with minimal environmental impacts. Many can be used in organic production.

Biopesticides often require a good understanding of pests and diseases to be used effectively. They help to manage, rather than completely control pests. Biopesticides are therefore best used in an integrated approach rather than as simple replacements for conventional pesticides.

Read this fact sheet to find out more about plant extracts, microbial pesticides, natural chemicals/minerals and biochemicals, including their availability, application, developments, challenges, advantages and disadvantages.

Join the Cornell SFP as they team up with Michigan State University and the University of Maine to offer three webinars and share the latest research on reduced tillage for organic vegetable production. Learn about practices that fit your operation, from permanent beds, tarps, and mulches, to cover cropping, strip tillage, and cultivation tools.

Growers, Scott and Kent Samwell, have always been using cover crops to rest the soil between brassica plantings and prevent erosion on the hilly land. They mainly planted rye grass and oats, and have been trying new types over the past 4-5 years, including rye grass mixed with legumes. They continue to be interested in investigating further options. This includes rye grass, faba beans, vetch and triticale, and potentially lucerne and rye corn.

This case study presents insights and lessons from trialling different cover crops and IPM at the Eastbrook Vegetable Farms demonstration site in Mt Barker in South Australia.

Reduced tillage can produce similar or better yields than more aggressive conventional tillage. It opens the door to improving soil health.

This case study outlines the pros and cons of reducing the intensity of cultivation in vegetable production systems. It is based on lessons learnt from three demonstration sites conducted as part of the Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection (ICP) projects (2014 – 2016).

Healthy soil and correct nutrition management is essential to a productive vegetable business and protecting the natural environment.

Watch this webinar recording to get the latest updates on managing vegetable soils and nutrition with a focus on nitrogen as the most mobile nutrient prone to losses via waterways and air, as well as the new industry-owned EnviroVeg program.

The Soil Wealth ICP team sat down with InfoVeg TV to chat about the project and its aim to communicate information about soil management and plant health to Australian vegetable growers to help the industry grow sustainably using healthy soils.

Learn more about soil biological, chemical and physical fertility, as well as access the Soils are Alive tool - the complete soil health reference for farmers, consultants and researchers.

This presentation provides a great overview of the role of phosphorus in soil biology by Dr Cassandra Schefe, from Monash University and Schefe Consulting.

Chemicals have different modes of action that can affect both insect pests and beneficial species differently.

Watch the recording of this interactive session with Dr Siobhan de Little and James Maino from cesar, facilitated by Carl Larsen from RMCG.

Calcium Cyanamide Fertiliser, also known as nitrolime, has been used in Germany as a slow release nitrogen and calcium fertiliser with liming e ect for over 100 years. It was introduced into Australia by the German manufacturer Alzchemie AG Germany (www.alzchem.com) in 1996.

Nitrogen (N) is an essential nutrient for plant growth, development and reproduction, so it’s important to ensure your crops have enough!

Read this fact sheet to find out more about the steps to providing the right amount of nitrogen, managing and monitoring N, and how nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) data can be interpreted.

Green peach aphids (GPA) are an important pest of vegetables, causing damage by feeding and transmitting viruses. High levels of resistance to carbamates, pyrethroids and organophosphates are found across Australia.

Watch the recording of this interactive session with guest presenter Dr Siobhan de Little from cesar.

The Vegetable SOILpak manual was developed by NSW Department of Primary Industries to provide soil information relevant to irrigated vegetable production in New South Wales. The manual aims to provide decision support for landholders and advisers, helping to maintain or improve productivity over both the short and long term.

Precision agriculture (or PA) uses a combination of new technology and existing agronomic knowledge to maximise farm efficiency.

Watch the recording of this one-hour interactive session facilitated by the National Vegetable Extension Network (VegNET) in Victoria (N, W, SE regions) and Tasmania, funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable industry levy and funds from the Australian Government.

Read this excellent summary of some common tools for managing soil health in cropping/mixed enterprises in Tasmania. Generally, the more tools you can use, the better!

This poster was prepared by Adrian James, NRM North, with contributions by Bill Cotching, Doris Blaesing, Greg Gibson and John McPhee.

Soil borne diseases are a serious concern for the vegetable industry, but can be managed, according to NSW Department of Primary Industries Senior Plant Pathologist, Dr Len Tesoriero. Dr Tesoriero has given a number of interesting and practical presentations at recent industry events on managing soil borne diseases in vegetable crops.

Hear from Rob Hinrichsen of Kalfresh in QLD about using controlled traffic in commercial vegetable production systems.

This video captures Rob's experiences with the technology achieving 'growing zones' and 'driving zones', the benefits of reduced tillage down from 11-12 passes to 2-3 passes, the costs of transitioning the cultivation system, as well as how the business piloted the technology before making the big change.

Will a potential change to soil management increase profit? How do we assess whether a change we’ve already made was profitable? One way to answer these questions is to use a ‘partial budget’. A partial budget assesses additional revenue and reduced revenue, additional costs and reduced costs to work out the net change in profit. A partial budget only includes items that change.

Hear from Rob Hinrichsen of Kalfresh in QLD about using cover crops, or 'green carbon', in commercial vegetable production systems.

This video captures Rob's experiences in using different types of cover crops such as tillage raddish and sun hemp to achieve different objectives, some of the benefits of using cover crops such as increased soil carbon and crop resilience, as well as providing advice to those starting out.

Hear from Rob Hinrichsen of Kalfresh in QLD about using compost in commercial vegetable production systems. This video captures Rob's experiences in soil biology, short and long-term compost, the financial implications of using compost, and advice for starting out.

This case study outlines the economic considerations when using compost in vegetable production systems. It is based on lessons learned from several Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection (ICP) demonstration sites, during the period 2014 to 2016.

The costs of compost are largely driven by the type and quality of the compost; freight costs depends on distance; and spreading/incorporation costs depend on application rates, type of compost, machinery required, travelling time and the scale of the work.

The benefits will depend on the individual farm as well as the objectives for using compost, for example increase organic matter or prevent be collapse. The main benefits of using compost are increased organic matter, adding nutrients to the soil, increased water holding capacity of the soil, and disease suppression. It is important to consider other practices that may need to change in conjunction with compost application, such as tillage, irrigation and crop protection requirements.

This case study outlines the economic considerations when using cover crops in vegetable production systems. It is based on lessons learned from several Soil Wealth – ICP demonstration sites, during the period 2014 to 2016.

One of the most important considerations is being clear about the purpose of using cover crops in the farm system system as it influences the way you may judge costs and benefits and the timing of these.

The overall benefits will depend on each situation. However, to figure out what works for you on your farm and a specific purpose, talk to others who have used cover crops for a similar purpose / situation; trial cover crops or include a test strip if possible.

Vegetable growers and their advisers have identified soil borne
diseases as one of their main challenges for soil management
and crop protection. Soil borne diseases cost Australia’s $4 billion
vegetable industry an estimated $120 million each year.

The Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection projects provide R&D extension services, products and communication on improved soil management and plant health to the Australian vegetable industry.

From 2014 to 2017, RMCG and AHR have delivered the projects for Horticulture Innovation Australia. Phase 1 of the projects have now been completed. So, what’s been achieved?

A webinar presented by Dr Jenny Ekman on strategies available to growers to manage fruit fly in vegetable crops, including the fruit fly lifecycle, monitoring, use of protein baiting, male annihilation techniques and netting.

The purpose of this guide is to help growers and agronomists interpret conventional ‘chemical’ soil tests and identify soil chemical constraints for commercial vegetable production in Australia.

This resource can be used to guide site specific decisions on nutrition management. It does NOT provide prescriptive information on how much of a certain nutrient or fertiliser to apply to various vegetable crops. A recipe approach is not recommended because results in crop performance would be unreliable.

A soil test, combined with a visual soil assessment, and knowledge about paddock history and production plans, provides a sound basis for a nutrition program. A conventional soil test can provide some information about biological and physical soil properties. While a complete soil condition assessment covers physical, biological and chemical soil properties of the topsoil and subsoil.

Watch this webinar recording from 21 March 2017 to find out more about the good, the bad and the ugly of compost use in vegetable production with Dr Doris Blaesing from RMCG.

A webinar on nutrition management and plant disease presented by Dr Len Tesoriero as part of the Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection projects.

Modern crop protection chemistry such as herbicides, insecticides and fungicides, is crucial to farming in Australia and around the world. These essential products and tools are a core foundation to food production and their safe and sustainable use is of critical importance.

Find out more by reading this useful best practice guide developed by CropLife Australia.

A webinar on biofumigation cover crops presented by Julie Finnigan and Dr Kelvin Montagu as part of the Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection projects.

Anhydrous ammonia has long been used as a preplant and side dressing fertiliser in the cotton and grain industries. It results in a high retention of nitrogen in the soil, reduced leaching of nitrates through the soil and yield increases in various crops. However, it needs to be treated with care as it can cause injury to farm workers.

Anhydrous ammonia has beneficial effects on soil microbes, nitrifying bacteria and worms. It is more suited to row crops rather than babyleaf crops, where even distribution nitrogen in the soil is required.

Adjuvants are additives that enhance or modify the action of a chemical. They are commonly classified into broad categories including oils, surfactants, buffers, acidifiers and fertiliser adjuvants. Adjuvants can modify how a chemical forms, spreads or behaves within the spray solution and/or on the target pest.

This fact sheet provides insights into how adjuvants work, what types are available, and recommendations on what one to choose to make sure it's compatible with your pesticides active ingredients.

Over the past four years, the effect of pyrethrum marc on vegetable crops has been compared with biochar, oaten chaff and conventional fertilisers at a trial site in Tasmania.

Pyrethrum marc can offer benefits as a soil conditioner and also as a source of nutrients for crops. Amendments can provide benefits for one or more years after application. Therefore, soil testing and monitoring combined with a fertiliser program is important for making the most of the economic benefits. Based on the crops grown and yields achieved in this trial, if pyrethrum marc was $60-65/t delivered, it would provide at least similar returns to conventional fertiliser.

Read this fact sheet to learn more about the trial, crops grown, treatments, and results.

This webinar series aims to provide evidence based knowledge to make good decisions on site-specific nutrient management of vegetable crops using soil and plant testing and the 4R principles (right source, right rate, right time and right place).

The third webinar in the series focuses on developing a fertilizer program and features well-respected specialists Bruce Scott (E.E. Muir & Sons) and Dr Doris Blaesing.

Soil health refers to the fitness of the soil to achieve its potential, within natural or managed limitations, and be productive under
the intended land use. Healthy soils have physical, chemical and biological properties that sustain biological functioning, maintain environmental quality and promote plant, animal and human health.

This practical fact sheet outlines the importance of healthy soil, its characteristics and how to get there, as well as the main soil health issues and potential solutions.

Cover crops are being rediscovered by vegetable growers as practical ways of improving soil productivity and health. While cover cropping is a simple concept, it can be complex to implement in todays intensive production systems.

In this webinar Dr Kelvin Montagu from the Soil Wealth - ICP team, talks about the use of cover crops in vegetable production and the practical issues which need to be considered.

Nitrogen is a key input into vegetable production. Applying high levels of nitrogen, either as fertiliser, compost or amendments is necessary to achieve high yields, but it can also result in nitrous oxide gas being released into the atmosphere.

This fact sheet provides useful information on the loss of plant available nitrogen, reducing nitrous oxide emissions, nitrogen management (the 4 R's) and keeping informed through soil testing.

A webinar on sclerotinia management presented by Dr Len Tesoriero.

This project has been funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited using the vegetable levy and funds from the Australian Government

Compost is a mixture of recycled organic materials that have been processed by natural organisms, breaking down the original materials into a usable form. Compost has many benefits for soil. It can feed plants, stimulate beneficial microbes, improve soil structure and help the soil retain nutrients, water and warmth.

This guide describes how fresh produce growers can use compost without affecting their food safety assurance program.

Compost is a mixture of recycled organic materials that have been processed by natural organisms, breaking down the original materials into a usable form. Compost has many benefits for soil. It can feed plants, stimulate beneficial microbes, improve soil structure and help the soil retain nutrients, water and warmth.

This guide describes how producers of recycled organic products can ensure that the composts they supply meet the requirements of food safety programs such as Freshcare.

Onion Maggot (Delia platura), also known as seed corn maggot, is an agricultural pest that damages seeds and seedlings in a wide range of crops including corn, beans, onions, garlic, brassicas, potatoes and spinach.

Reports of damage by this pest are usually following cool wet spring conditions. This fact sheet provides practical advice on the damage caused by Onion Maggot, its life cycle, and the cultural, biological and chemical control options. There are also some tips for great further reading if you want to know more.

Pesticide resistance is an ongoing concern for the vegetable industry.

If you missed this webinar on 20 October 2016, listen to the recording with expert practitioners Dr Paul Horne and Jessica Page from IPM Technologies and Carl Larsen, RMCG to find out more about how resistance arises, developing a resistance management strategy, and understanding all the control options available - biological, cultural and chemical.

This case study provides a unique long-term grower perspective on using compost on a commercial vegetable farm.

Have you ever wondered what the potential benefits to soil and plant health are from using compost? Thinking about using compost? Need to know the questions to ask a supplier of compost?

Learn more from Sam Calameri of Baldivis Farms in Western Australia who started trialling compost on-farm more than 10 years ago.

View the leaf and sap testing for vegetable crops webinar broadcast on the 27th September 2016 by Bruce Scott, Doris Blaesing and Gordon Rogers from the Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection team and E.E. Muir & Sons.

A webinar on weed management presented by Dr Paul Kristiansen, Dr Kelvin Montagu and Marc Hinderager as part of the Integrated Crop Protection project.

Crop sensing is allowing the adoption of variable rate management to address yield variability, improve management of inputs and maximise productivity.

The Werribee demonstration site held its first farm walk on 2 September 2016, hosted by Andrew Fragapane. After three lettuce crops over 10 months it was time to have a look at how the crops and soils were measuring up under the conventional-, reduced- and minimum-tillage practices. With the number of cultivations at 23, 6 and 2, respectively, some big difference could be expected.

Despite the hard setting soils the reduced-till practice was coming out as a clear winner, maintaining yields and reducing tractor, fuel and labour costs, and allowing the soil biology to do some of the heavy lifting in building a more stable soil structure which the crop roots seems to be enjoying.

Match your main soil management aim to the southern Australian summer cover crops.

Watch this video if you missed this webinar on 22 July 2016.

Listen to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) experts Dr Paul Horne and Jessica Page with Carl Larsen discuss the chemical, cultural and biological options for controlling insect pests in Australian vegetable crops.

Brassica whitefly (Aleyrodes proletella) is a pest of crops in the brassica family. This insect is not restricted to brassicas, although it prefers them. Its host range includes cabbages, cauliflowers, broccoli, kale and Asian vegetables, especially wombok (Chinese cabbage).

In NSW, the brassica whitefly has only become a pest of significance in the last 2-3 seasons but were first reported in Australia in 1997 in South Australia.

This fact sheet provides you with important information on damage, ecology, and management options including monitoring, cultural practices, biological control and chemical control.

The Soils in Schools program started in 2015, the UN declared International Year of Soils. It is an initiative of Soil Science Australia.

This programs vision is to communicate and educate school children on the relevance of soils in everyday life and to encourage a wider interest in our soil resources.

Doris Blaesing and Gordon Rogers from the Soil Wealth team, presented a webinar on how to get the most from soil testing for vegetable crops.

If you missed this popular webinar, you can view the recording and download the presentation from here.

Plant nutrients are commonly split into two categories:

• Major elements (macronutrients) that are required in relatively large quantities by plants, and
• Trace elements (micronutrients) that are essential for plant growth, but are only required in small amounts.

All elements must be available in a form that is useable by the plant, and in balanced concentrations that allow optimum plant growth.

Download this great summary of what the plant nutrients do, and how they need to be applied for the plant to make best use of your investment in fertilisers.

This summary provides Australian vegetable growers with an understanding of available and emerging irrigation practices and technologies that could improve profitability and encourage the uptake of more efficient water practices.

Match your main soil management aim to the southern Australian winter cover crops.

Silicon is an available nutrient for all plants grown in soil, with its content in plant tissue ranging from 0.1%-10%. Although it is not currently classified as an essential nutrient for plant growth, recent research suggests that silicon may have a significant role to play in plant health.

Read this fact sheet to learn more about the benefits of silicon on crop health and subsequent production, including improved nutrient availability, plant resistance to pest and disease pressure, and improved resilience to environmental stress. Guidance on how to choose a silicon product is also provided.

The objective of this Standard is to provide manufacturers, suppliers, customers and government bodies with the minimum requirements for the physical, chemical and biological properties of composts, soil conditioners, mulches and vermicast, as well as labelling and marking, in order to facilitate the beneficial recycling and use of compostable organic materials with minimal adverse impact on environmental and public health, by avoiding biosecurity and phytotoxicity risks associated with inappropriate product.

Maintaining or increasing soil carbon makes good sense – for the environment and for soil productivity. While climate scientists talk about soil carbon, you will know it better as soil organic matter. And the productivity benefits of soil organic matter are legendary:

• Providing a slow release supply of nutrients
• Improving cation exchange capacity and nutrient- holding ability
• Buffering against soil acidity
• Improving soil structure and aggregate stability
• Improving soil water holding capacity
• Reducing erosion risk.

This fact sheet summaries the opportunities and management options for mitigating or sequestering soil carbon in vegetable soils.

How to control Pythium in vegetable crops with Dr Len Tesoriero. Video of a Webinar run on the 31st March 2016 with DR Len Tesoriero (NSW DPI) and Dr Kelvin Montagu from AHR.

One of the key issues with babyleaf spinach is how to deliver this popular leafy vegetable to consumers in good condition. For this to happen, growers must first produce high quality spinach, and this quality must be maintained throughout the supply chain until it’s used by the consumer.

This fact sheet explores the three most significant pre-harvest factors that affect spinach post-harvest quality and shelf-life. These are growth rate of crop, variety, and minimum night temperature during the growing period.

A healthy topsoil is a great asset to have, as this layer of soil contains the highest concentration of organic matter, micro-organisms, nutrients and biological activity. Lost topsoil can’t be replaced in a human’s lifespan. Therefore erosion, probably the biggest culprit in the loss of topsoil, should be effectively managed.

This fact sheet provides essential information on managing soil erosion, including reducing the impact of wind and water. The easy to read publication also guides decision-making on managing your irrigation system, controlling run-off water, covering exposed soil areas, improving soil structure and increasing cohesion between soil particles.

Vegetable pathologist, Dr Len Tesoriero and AHRs Dr Kelvin Montagu, recently presented a highly successful webinar on how to manage the soil borne disease Pythium in vegetable crops.

The webinar was recorded, and is now available as a YouTube video. You can click on the link below to watch the full Webinar. You can also download the presentation and follow the link to an ICP factsheet on how to manage soil borne disease in vegetable crops.

This fact sheet explains how floating row covers can be used to protect crops from frost and other weather extremes, while at the same time protecting crops from insect pests.

On September 17th a field day on biofumigation at David and Lee East’s Bewray farm at Manjimup, WA attracted over 45 growers and industry specialists.

This easy to read fact sheet provides information on control options (both chemical and non-chemical) for high priority pests in brassica vegetable crops. This fact sheet is the second in a series of seven publications that provide details on the currently registered and permitted pesticides for key diseases, insects and weeds in your crop.

This easy to read fact sheet provides information on control options (both chemical and non-chemical) for high priority pests in brassica leafy vegetable crops. This fact sheet is the first in a series of seven publications that provide details on the currently registered and permitted pesticides for key diseases, insects and weeds in your crop.

Vegetable growers and advisors discuss how attending a master class has changed the way they manage soilborne diseases and influenced their business.

Weeds increase the cost of growing vegetables, reduce crop yield and quality, and impact farm management decisions, such as timing of harvest and choice of herbicide options.

A summary of the importance of soil, soil science and good soil management from a Victorian perspective.

In the higher rainfall zones, slugs in vegetable production systems can be a problem. As no single control method will provide complete protection, an integrated approach is best. Read this useful fact sheet to find out more, and learn from what other industries are doing.

This vegenote provides useful information on how to identify white blister and options for managing the disease.

Missed the Bulmer Farm Walk on 21 May 2015? Catch up on reduced tillage options in vegetables in this video from Jeanette Servers of Good Fruit & Vegetable.

Biofumigation is the use of specialised cover crops, which are grown, mulched and incorporated into the soil prior to cropping. High biomass, especially roots, can provide the traditional benefits of green manure crops, and if done right, naturally occurring compounds from the biofumigant plants can suppress soil-borne pests, diseases and weeds.

ONCE a thorn in the side of vegetable growers, insects and bugs are now being welcomed back into commercial crops.

This brochure is a guide to integrated weed management in Australian broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprout crops. It provides an overview of weed management methods in these crops based on research conducted for Horticulture Australia Limited. There are 3 key steps to effective weed management. These are:
1. Plan your rotations
2. Identify your weeds
3. Develop your weed management strategy

This website contains a series of documents to guide you through the successful prodution of Brassica crops.

The key messages of this fact sheet are:
- Plant resistant varieties.
- Irrigate crops in the morning to reduce leaf wetness and infection.
- Manage nutrients as they impact on disease.
- Use disease forecasting models when cropping susceptible varieties.

Specialists in all areas of brassica production, including insect, disease, nematode, weed and virus have combined to pool current knowledge on best practice IPM principles.

Rather than prescriptive rules for each problem, the information provides knowledge and general principles that you can use to plan for an integrated approach to crop production.

Fresh Select vegetable grower Stuart Grigg talks about how he controls insect pests using natural predators.

Cadmium is a widespread, naturally occurring, element that is present in soils, rocks, waters, plants and animals. It is crucial to limit our long-term exposure to cadmium, as it can accumulate in humans and high levels can affect human health.

This article originally published in Vegenotes, provides an insight into managing cadmium in vegetable production.