Integrated and organic production of kiwifruit

The key element to be overcome in deriving a successful integrated or organic production system is pest and disease control. With organic production a second limiting factor can be the maintenance of productivity without the use of synthetic fertilisers, but this aspect is not discussed here. The current situation and prospects for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and organic techniques for pest control on kiwifruit in New Zealand and other countries is examined in regard to the pest spectra present. Constraints and opportunities for both approaches are discussed. For both systems in New Zealand there is a critical need for a wider range of: acceptable controls, in order to better assure consistent production that meets quarantine requirements, even in situations which favour pest outbreaks. Secondary pests also require better controls. Organic production in New Zealand is small but rapidly increasing. A healthy premium is currently being achieved, although some question the sustainability of this in the longer term. An IPM system called 'KiwiGreen' has become the norm for production of kiwifruit in New Zealand. Planned and possible further developments are considered.