The production of horticultural crops in Australia.
Possingham J. V.
Author Affiliation: Viticultural Section, International Society for Horticultural Science, GPO Box 273 Adelaide 5001, Australia.
Journal of the Korean Society for Horticultural Science 39 : 227-232
Abstract : The history of fruit and vegetable production in Australia is described with reference to population and city growth leading to the loss of good horticultural land. Most horticultural production now takes place on inland areas which require irrigation. Significant quantities of pome fruits are grown in cool elevated areas in most states of Australia, especially in Tasmania. Prior to the UK joining the EEC, Australia's exports of temperate horticultural produce were mainly sent to the UK where they enjoyed a preferential tariff. Tropical fruit crops are produced for local consumption and for export to Asia, including pineapple, banana, mango, litchi, mangosteen, macadamia and cashew. Many crops, including asparagus, melons and table grapes, can be produced for most months of the year. There is an increasing production of Asian vegetables for use by the local community and for export. The viticultural industry is briefly described with reference to table grapes, raisins and wine production. Tabulated data on vegetable, fruit and nut production for 1994-95, and citrus production and grape, raisin and wine production in 1996 are presented.