Summary

The project aims to facilitate the development of a new industry based on the native radish, Platysace deflexa, in the Great Southern Region of Western Australia.
The project will concurrently address:
-research questions around genetic variability of vegetable performance; development of scaleable propagation methodologies, and evaluation improved harvesting methodologies.
-establishment of industry capacity in relation to the agronomic requirements (propagation/cultivation) of the crop through the delivery of extension.
-the establishment of 2-4 small production areas (approx 0.25ha plots) in the northern and/or eastern parts of the Great Southern Region that will enable improved knowledge of the agricultural system and then provide product that can then be tested in the marketplace.
-the trialing of a range of potential value added end products for the market.

Program

New and Emerging Plant Industries

Research Organisation

University of Western Australia

Objective Summary

Research
-Evaluate genetic diversity within the species (Platysace deflexa) in relation to key tuber attributes for performance as a root vegetable for the native food industry.
-Explore mechanical harvesting options for a developing new industry.

Extension
-Provide extension tools for new entrants in a new industry based on Platysace deflexa (eg fact sheets, field days).
-Develop industry capacity in agronomic aspects of platysace production (with a focus on propagation and cultivation).

Development
-Establish 2-4 small production areas (approx 0.25ha plots) in the northern and/or eastern parts of the Great Southern Region.
-Commence production, with a view to having product available to the market at the end of 2013.
-Undertake a value adding trial to evaluate potential end products for the market.