Last week a nursery applying for Kiwifruit Plant Certification Scheme (KPCS) certification was found to have Psa-V for the first time. It was detected by KVH during testing which is part of the certification process.

The result follows a severe weather event in the region and comes as a disappointment for the nursery which had been following KVH Protocols and working towards the Core Standard with many systems in place to achieve certification.

KVH is working with the nursery to manage the risks and assist with recovery over the longer term; along with tracing of plant movement, contacting affected growers and working with regional coordinators in these areas.

Nurseries selling plants under the KPCS must pass an external systems audit and have independent verification they are free of the target pests and diseases.

KVH continues to work with kiwifruit nurseries to improve biosecurity practices and certify them under the KPCS Core Standard. By purchasing certified plants, growers have assurance they are investing in the best possible start when establishing new vines.