Expanding onion exports from Canterbury.

In the past five years onion exports from Canterbury have expanded from 20 to over 4000 t. Exports recommenced in 1989 after a break of several years following the finding of onion smut in the Marshland area which precluded exports to Australia. The area planted has grown from 187 ha in 1989 to 255 ha in 1992, the expansion coming from new growers, mostly experienced arable producers, who sought, received and acted on extension advice from the former DSIR Crop Research, MAF consultants and industry personnel. Favourable production from early season gave confidence to three major Pukekohe-based onion exporters to invest in joint ventures in Canterbury and offer forward contracts for export onions based on Japanese cultivars. In the Canterbury climate, which averages 1973 heat units above 5°C from I August to 31 March and is prone to cool summer weather, cultivar choice is defined principally by maturity and bolting resistance. In Addition to cultivar choice, early planting, Effective weed, disease and pest control, irrigation and timely harvesting practices are required to achieve export quality onions and profitable yields. Canterbury now has a sound base for future expansion with well adapted cultivars which meet market requirements.