Winter is a key time for replanting or establishing new kiwifruit blocks. Whether you're replacing old vines or developing a new area, it's vital to stay on top of biosecurity requirements - especially when moving plants between properties.

Following biosecurity requirements reduces the risk of spreading pests and diseases like Psa and helps ensure a rapid, effective response if a new organism is detected.

Growers must only source kiwifruit plants from nurseries that meet the National Kiwifruit Pathway Management Plan requirements. This means certification through one of the following:

• KVH’s Kiwifruit Plant Certification Scheme (KPCS)

• Plant Pass, a broad nursery certification programme for all plant types

You’ll find a list of certified nurseries on the KVH website. Two levels of certification are available:

• Full Certification: Plants are free from Psa and other target organisms. These nurseries operate in Psa-free environments and provide plants that have tested Psa Not Detected.

• Restricted Certification: Plants may carry the common New Zealand strain of Psa (Psa-V) but are tested to be free from more harmful, resistant, or offshore strains.

Growers can produce their own plants on the property they’ll be used on, without certification. Additionally, up to 1,000 plants per year may be moved between properties under the same ownership (KPINs). While certification isn't needed in these cases, accurate traceability records must be kept.

Important reminders:

• Do not move any plants showing disease symptoms.

• Both the supplying nursery and the receiving property must maintain traceability records in case symptoms appear later and tracing is required.

For further guidance or to view certified nursery lists, visit the KVH nursery web page or contact us directly.