The message for the Guernsey horticultural industry is that while export value is increasing there are sections still in decline. However, strong new sectors are expanding so large areas of glass must be maintained to allow further growth.

These are the findings from the 2002 Horticultural Economic and Statistical Report, prepared for the Committee for Horiculture by economic and strategic advisor John Ogier.

Ogier said there was significant growth in both plant production and flowers by post. And new sections in the pharmaceutical and seed areas should emerge to produce high value crops.

He commented: 'The areas of modern glass are particularly important in this respect. Another important aspect is the development of new markets and the production of crops for known market demand. It is anticipated that traditional means of marketing cut flower crops through the wholesale UK markets will continue to decline.' The report stated that horticultural exports were valued at £45.5million. And with plant production expected to gross £24.4m this year, this sector now represents 53 per cent of the industry. There is also growth in the cut flower business, and postal flower trade has increased to more than £6m since 1976. However, local investment in horticulture is still very low.

The report concludes that more young plants should be grown for plant export markets, and the quality assurance scheme should be developed for cut flowers. Growers should have confidence to invest with the Horticultural Interest Support Scheme, existing glasshouse sites should be maintained, and training opportunities could be developed.

Additionally, the president of the Guernsey Growers' Association (GGA) – David Miller – has promised the review of the island's horticultural industry will be comprehensive.

Miller said: 'The greatest threat comes from standing still. Major changes are at work in the international area. These changes include the need for increasing expansion in the size of business.' He added that the horticultural industry should work more closely with other local industries to address issues of taxation, transport and market links. Miller stressed that plant variety rights, health and safety, the availability and use of chemicals, and other environmental issues will become more pressing.

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