Lincoln, New Zealand
July 28, 1999
Anyone thinking of investing in new crops like Echinacea, and valerian should spend the
time to find exactly what the plants require from the seedbed on, says researcher Bas Deo
of New Zealand
Institute for Crop & Food Research Ltd .
Mr Deo, who specialises in these crops in Canterbury says that from the growing point of
view, they have had their potential proved in New Zealand. Further research is basically
fine tuning production, he says.
However, trying crops on spec, without "doing your homework" is not to be
recommended as each crop can have specific growing idiosyncracies, he says.
The right seedbed is most important with all the crops requiring very thorough land
preparation - though this should not be overdone. Valerian is one crop that prefers a soil
with fine tilth, shallow sowing and ample moisture to aid emergence. Problems start
immediately the crop is sown too deep, or the surface layer of the soil dries out. He
recommends potential growers only plant on a small scale for the first season to basically
understand the crop. "Only plant an area which is within your financial limits and
that you can manage efficiently. Also only plant as much as you can afford to lose in case
disaster strikes."
This is especially so as no pest or weed control chemicals are registered for the new
crops. While chemicals can, of course, be used this is based on a knowledge of the
chemicals effect on other similar crops and limited experience with the new crop.
On the marketing side of the equation, Mr Deo says prices almost totally depend on demand
on the other side of the world. He advises everyone to do their marketing homework and to
work on the principle of what price is needed to make a reasonable profit. While many are
disappointed with falling prices for Echinacea, he says, if managed knowledgeably and
efficiently, the crop can be produced for around $2.50 per kilogram. Company news release
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