This is a final research report from Hort Innovation’s historical archives. Please note that as these reports may date back as far as the 1990s, the content and recommendations within them may be superseded by more recent research.

What was it all about?

Australia produces 40,000 tonnes of strawberries worth $240 million each year. Winter production in south-east Queensland is worth $140 million. Each year, Queensland fruit growers plant 30 - 35 million transplants supplied by runner growers in Queensland and Victoria. Before methyl bromide was phased out in 2005 because it depleted the ozone layer, runner growers depended on it to control soil borne diseases and weeds. Effective fumigant replacements for strawberry runner and fruit production were needed.