mfp horticulture newsletter

Vol.4, Issue 2, 2014

Editor’s NoteFlowers are an important feature of everyday life. In Trinidad and Tobago they are given as gifts on special occasions such as Mother’s Day, birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day or as special tokens of appreciation. Flowers are also used in religious rituals, for personal adornment as brooches or corsages as well as for décor at home and at various events like weddings and at funerals.

This issue on horticulture explores more than the production of flowers as reflected in the Horticulture in Focus article. For our prospective entrepreneurs

we have provided articles on commercial ornamental production and trade requirements. Home gardeners can benefit from incorporating ornamentals into the kitchen garden which doubles as a beautifier and as a deterrent for pests, so do check out the Combination Ornamental and Kitchen Garden article. The culinary enthusiasts may wish to try their hands at Hibiscus Wine making.

In this issue, our medicinal corner reminds some of us of orange peel tea and we offer the option of Aromatherapy for relaxation. Equally relaxing is a visit to the Botanic Gardens where you can view the magnificent Talipot Palm in Bloom. Also featured in the Botanic Gardens is of course, our National

Flower, the Chaconia. Did you know there is a double Chaconia as well as the single Chaconia? Well, find out which is the national flower in the Chaconia article.

Highlights from the Horticulture Society of Trinidad and Tobago Flower Show, as well as a focus on tropical cut flower arrangements are included in this issue. You can benefit from Free Training Courses offered by the Ministry and you may be intrigued to discover what milk and bananas can do for your plants. Find out in our Tips section.

This issue is loaded with information; we do hope you enjoy reading!

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Horticulture in FocusThe term ‘horticulture’ describes the cultivation of various plant types and is not exclusive to ornamental production. Horticulture, derived from the Latin word hortus, meaning “garden,” covers all systems of garden management and basically refers to the intensive cultivation of plants for human use. It is very diverse in its activities, incorporating plants for food (fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, culinary herbs) and non-food crops (flowers, trees and shrubs, turf-grass, medicinal herbs). It also includes related services such as plant conservation, landscape, landscape restoration, garden design and horticultural therapy.

Horticulture is both the science and art of growing plants. As a science it includes plant propagation, plant breeding, crop production, plant physiology and biochemistry. Genetic engineering can be used to improve plant yields, quality and resistance to pests and diseases as well as environmental stresses. It also incorporates the social sciences, such as education, commerce, marketing and healthcare.

A variety of local fruits Ornamental Plant Production

Horticulture, as an art, integrates the principles of design and landscaping and is practiced from the individual level in a garden up to the activities of a business enterprise. Floral, landscaping and nursery business enterprises raise plants for the creation of attractive garden design and surroundings.

Careers in horticulture span industry, government or educational institutions or private collections. They can be wholesale or retail business managers, propagators, landscape designers, food garden

designers (edible landscaping) and business entrepreneurs. At the other end of the spectrum, interested persons can pursue horticulture as a hobby such as the rearing of specialty plants for example orchids or cacti, home gardening and floral arranging. It is a widely practiced industry and hobby that encourage an intimate interaction between people and plants. The horticultural industry is the main source of fruits and vegetables and an important supplier of ornamental plants.

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PlaNts tHat CoNtrol PEstsPlaNt CoNtrolBasil Whiteflies, mosquitoesChamomile Flying insects Chives AphidsChrysanthemums Roaches, ants, ticks, silverfish, lice, flies and root-

knot nematodesCitronella grass Most insects and catsCommon lantanas MosquitoesCoriander Aphids and spider mites Dahlias Repels mosquitoesDill Aphids, squash bugs, spider mites, tomato

hornwormEucalyptus AphidsFennel Repels aphids, slugs and snailsFrench marigold Whiteflies, nematodesGarlic Repels aphids, snails, cabbage looper, root

maggotsLavender Fleas and flies, including mosquitoesLemon balm Mosquitoes Neem Termites, locusts, grasshoppers, mites, nematodes,

fungi, bacteriaOregano Repellent to general pestsPeppermint Aphids, whitefliesPetunias Aphids, tomato horn worm, leafhoppers and

squash bugsRosemary Slugs, snails

Combiningornamental and Kitchen GardensGardens traditionally serve multiple purposes including the provision of food, creating aesthetically pleasing spaces and increasing the value of residential properties. A quick observation of the local situation may suggest that many neighbourhood gardens exist in a somewhat unplanned setting. With a little thoughtful planning, ornamental and kitchen gardens can be combined to provide both aesthetic appeal as well as a supplemental source of food.

A great diversity of herbs, vegetables and fruits, often make up the average kitchen garden. Chandon beni, chive, tomatoes, melongenes, oranges and limes are popular. Ornamental species often feature bougainvilleas, crotons, ferns, ixoras and lantanas, just to name a few. However, the committed gardener can enhance the functions of the ornamental-kitchen garden by strategically intercropping specific plants that have natural pest control properties.

The term ‘pest’ in this context refers to not only those organisms, such as spider mites and aphids, that damage or destroy vegetables, fruits and other foliage but includes other organisms that can hamper a gardener from functioning

properly within the garden such as sand flies and mosquitoes. There are specific plants which contain essential oils that are used for their pest repellent properties as well as others which can be used in their natural form to deter pest.

Historically, agricultural communities have counteracted the impact of pest on food crops through plants identified with specific pest repellent properties. Traditional and modern agricultural practices have since evolved around this aspect of pest control in crop production. It is recommended that such plants be established nearby to alleviate pest infestation. This is referred to as ‘companion planting’ and it is usually practiced by organic gardeners as a form of natural pest control.

Please note: In most instances excessive use of any plant as a pesticide will cause harm to beneficial insects. Table adapted from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_pest-repelling_plants

Melongene growing along withFrench marigold in a kitchen garden

Baby pak choi growing in a kitchen garden


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Hibiscus Flower Wine• 6-8 hibiscus flowers• 1kg. sugar• 3 ½ litres water• Juice from ½ a lime• 1 tsp yeast nutrient• 1 pack yeast

Combine water and sugar and put on to boil, stirring 1. occasionally until sugar is dissolved.

Tie flowers in a cotton cloth and put in primary 2. container.

Pour boiling sugar solution over flowers and stir in all 3. ingredients except yeast. Cover container until water cools to room temperature.

Squeeze flowers to extract maximum flavour and then 4. discard flowers.

Add yeast, cover container, and stir daily until active 5. fermentation dies down (7-8 days).

Pour into secondary container and fit airlock. 6.

Allow fermentation at least 30 days.7.

Stabilise wine, bottle and enjoy.8.

Adapted from the winemaking home pagewww.winemaking.jackkeller.net

Some terms: Yeast nutrient - Available from speciality stores selling winemaking supplies. Active ingredient diammonium phosphate, helps in the nutrition of the yeast.Primary Container - Used to hold wine during primary fermentation usually a large plastic bucket. Do not use metal containers for fermentation unless it is stainless steel.Secondary Container - Used to hold wine during secondary fermentation, usually a bottle with an opening 3-5 cm in diameter; the opening must be able to fit the airlock snugly.Airlock - Piece of equipment used to allow carbon dioxide to escape while excluding oxygen, available at stores selling winemaking supplies.Stabilise - Stopping fermentation to allow wine to be safely bottled and stored.


FrEE training CoursesDo you know that the Ministry of Food Production offers FrEE training courses to help you develop your skills in horticulture? If you are interested in ornamental production, growing your own crops or even landscape management, you can look out for the courses being offered by the Extension Training and Information Services Division. The schedule is published every month on the last Sunday of each month in the Newsday and Express newspapers. The schedule is also posted on the ministry’s website at www.agriculture.gov.tt.

All courses are hosted every month at various Ministry County Offices throughout Trinidad and at the main Farmers Training Centre in Centeno.

some popular horticulture courses feature:• ornamental Production• Introduction to landscape Management• Home Gardening• Growing Vegetables using the sharp-

sand based Hydroponics system• Budding and Grafting• seedling Production

All participants are awarded a certificate upon completion of each course. Since space is limited participants are advised to register early. Interested persons are encouraged to call the advertised venues to secure a space.

For further information, please call the Farmers’ Training Centreat 642-0167 or 646-1966.

Business hours are:8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. - Monday to Friday.

Seedlings

Crotons used in landscaping

Hydroponics

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aromatherapy Aromatherapy is considered by many as a form of alternative medicine utilizing essential oils and other aromatic plant compounds. Aroma therapy can improve personal well-being and enhance mood. Anyone who owns a fragrant plant can attest to the fact that it transforms not only their garden but also their emotional state.

Gardeners who delve into the world of aromatherapy choose to plant special flowering plants that are fragrant with unique aromas. Local fragrant plants include the ‘four o’clock flower’, the gardenia, ‘ladies of the night’, tube roses, sweet lime and jasmine.

The Mirabilis jalapa or the ‘four o’clock flower’ has the unique characteristic of a single plant producing a flower in multiple colours and patterns. Individual flowers may be variegated with a combination of bold colours, stripes and spots. These flowers produce a strong, sweet smelling fragrance when it opens from late afternoon lasting throughout the night. However, with the arrival of morning they tend to close.

Cestrum nocturnum, commonly referred to as ‘ladies of the night’ is a native species of the West Indies. The flowers are greenish-white, with a slender tubular corolla with five acute lobes and are produced in inflorescence (group or cluster of flowers). These flowers, as the name suggests, also open at night producing a signature perfume which is both powerful and sweet.

Gardenia consists of 140 recognised species and are admired for their glossy foliage and strong scents. This plant belongs to the coffee family, which is native to tropical and sub-tropical regions. The common gardenia has green and white variegated

leaves and produces white scented blooms. However, they are not popular since plant lovers term them as ‘finicky’ with specific growing conditions and maintenance requirements. The Yellow Gardenia or ‘Gardenia coronata’ can also be found locally. This plant bears pinwheel-shaped flowers with a spicy scent. The initial blooms are cream in colour which changes into a golden yellow as they age.

Historically, richly scented plants have been incorporated into animal and vegetable oils to anoint

the body for ceremony and pleasure. Fragrant plants used for religious purposes were featured among the earliest items of commerce. Ancient civilizations such as the Romans, Greeks and Egyptians all utilized aromatic plants like gums and spices in one form or another. Asia also boasts numerous publications on aromatherapy.

In the twenty first century it is uncertain how many people appreciate or are aware of the aroma-therapy benefit provided by common fragrant plants within a garden. In comparison to many expensive aromatic potions, there is nothing better than the fresh aroma of a home grown plant when a person has settled in for the evening after a long stressful day.

Planting some fragrant plants at home and in community gardens will yield similar benefits to spas or other wellness centres. Aromatic plants also make beautiful presentations in the form of potpourri or floral bouquets.

The Gardenia flower

Flowers of the 4 o’clock plant

The African Gardenia flower

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Chaconia:our National Flower

The single Chaconia (Warzewiczia coccinea) is the national flower of Trinidad and Tobago. It is widely accepted that this national emblem was named in honour of the last Spanish governor, Don Jose Maria Chacon. Some attribute the name to be derived from our French heritage (“chaconne” which refers to a dance) in which the “chaconne” dancers decorated themselves with little flags, just as the tree appears to be decorated with little flags when in bloom.

The chaconia plant is a slender forest tree with many branches. It thrives mainly on moist hillsides along the slopes of the Northern Range. The brilliant red spray of blossoms appear early in the rainy season around May/June and lasts well into the Christmas season at the end of the year. The single Chaconia plant can be propagated from hardwood cuttings or from seeds.

the talipot PalmThe Talipot Palm at the Botanic Gardens, Port of Spain, started blooming last year and is now in its final stage of bloom. This splendid palm flowers once in an average of 30-80 years of its lifespan and the tree dies after it flowers. The bloom takes approximately one year to dry and produce seeds. The seeds can be collected and used to propagate more trees.

The Talipot Palm was introduced to our shores in the 1800’s with the establishment of the Royal Botanic Gardens. The last time a Talipot Palm flowered in the Botanic Gardens was during the 1990’s and we are indeed lucky to witness another. In case you missed it, there is another mature Talipot Palm in the Botanic Gardens that we can look forward to in future.

The National Flower of Trinidad and Tobago,the Single Chaconia

The unique flower of the single Chaconia appears in clusters with an enlarged red sepal. The panicle consists of a main axis or spray, 30-50cm long, along which paired stalked groups of flowers are seen. The single Chaconia belongs to the family rubiaceae and owes its scientific name to the Polish-Lithuanian plant collector, Joseph Warszewicz. The flower is also commonly known as wild poinsettia, Chaconia and Trinidad pride.

Sometimes, the double Chaconia is mistaken for our national flower. It is important to note that the main visible difference between the National flower or single Chaconia and the double Chaconia is the larger number of petaloid structures that makes it fuller, more resplendent and attractive. For this reason, the double Chaconia adorns many homes and offices.

Within recent times certain civic groups have been suggesting that the double Chaconia should be our National flower instead of the single Chaconia. This is because the double Chaconia is perceived to be unique to Trinidad while the single is endemic to other Central and South American nations including Costa Rica, Peru and Brazil.

Our national Chaconia flower is proudly featured on the nation’s silver twenty-five cent coin piece. In addition, since the achievement of our Independence on August 31st 1962, Trinidad and Tobago annually awards the National Chaconia Medal to citizens who have given long and meritorious service in the field of community work and social welfare.References: 1. Bannoche, Iris and Light, Marilyn (1993) Gardening in the Caribbean. 2. Kenny, J.S. (2006) Flowers of Trinidad and Tobago. 3. UWI Newsletter (2012). 4. Williams, R.O (1969) The Useful and Ornamental Plants in Trinidad and Tobago.


The beautiful Talipot Palm in bloom at the Botanical Gardens(June 2014)

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locally Grown Flowers Create splendour Today a vast majority of flowers featured in floral arrangements are imported so much so that one may assume, speculate or believe that locally grown flowers are not suitable for use in floral arrangements.However, this is not the case as many local flowers and foliage can be utilised to create splendid floral arrangements. It was actually our superb use of local flowers that captured Gold at the 2013 ChelseaFlower Show. (see page 11)

Locally grown flowers which are suitable for use in floral arrangements include: Orchids, Bromeliads, Heliconias, Anthuriums and Ginger Lilies. These flowers are complemented by a wide variety of foliage from locally grown plants including: Aralias, Palms, Sansevierias, Pleomeles, Sweet lime, Philodendrons, Cordylines, Dracaenas, Ferns, Aspidistras, Dieffenbachias and Scheffleras.

Bromeliad flowers have a long shelf life and they are very stunning which make them an excellent addition to cut flower arrangements. One native variety with much promise is Aechmea dichlamydea var trinitensis.

Heliconias used in floral arrangements include: Heliconia psittacorum (Parakeet Flower, False Bird of Paradise), Heliconia tortuosa, one of the most commonly cultivated Heliconia species in Hawaii and Heliconia wagneriana. The unusual, striking flowers of H.wagneriana, which last for weeks, are actually highly modified leaves and bracts in the shape of lobster claws. These plants all grow in the wild.

There are over 200 orchid species native to Trinidad and Tobago of varying colours and shapes. Many of these are used and can be used in cut flower arrangements. Cut flowers last from a few days to about a month, depending on the variety. Ginger lilies (red, pink, white gingers and Hawian Torch) and anthuriums, including hybrids make excellent floral arrangements.

Beautiful arrangement using a variety of local flowers


the royal Botanic Gardens of trinidad and tobagoThe Royal Botanic Gardens (RBG), established in 1818, is one of the oldest gardens in the Western Hemisphere which has had a continuous existence.

The Gardens are comprised of twenty-five (25) hectares of beautifully landscaped grounds located north of the capital city of Port of Spain. It consists of approximately seven hundred (700) trees of which thirteen percent (13%) are indigenous to Trinidad and Tobago. There are approximately 326 different plant species comprised of both endemic and introduced, representing every continent of the world. Among the first introductions was the Samaan tree.

The Royal Botanic Gardens plays a major role by protecting endemic and endangered species of economic value and by introducing and distributing plant material locally. This is an integral part of the World Conservation Strategy to maintain biogenetic diversity through protection, conservation, documentation and education.

The objectives of the Royal Botanic Gardens are conservation, education, research and recreation.

The Royal Botanic Gardens is divided into various sections:

the Front lawn• -The area between the two (2) entrances to the President’s HousePrivate cemetery• -Internment of Past Governor Generals, Presidents and their familiesBougainvillea Dell• Palm Walk•

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tips tips to Extending the Vase-life of YourCut Flowers

• Cut the end of the stem in a 45-degree angle with a sharp knife under running tap water about 1/2 to 1 inch above the end of the stem. This second cutting under running water removes all air bubbles that the stem absorbs and extends the flowers’ vase-life as well as exposes more of the flower’s water carrying pores to the water.

• Place cut stem immediately into treated lukewarm water.

• Change water every three (3) days and every time cut ½ inch of the stem under running water to give your flower a fresh start and long vase life.

• Keep your flowers away from heat and bright light.

• Avoid placing your flowers beside ripening fruit or vegetables, especially bananas.

Water treatments for cut flowersThe type of treatment depends on the flowers; some mixtures are as follows:

- For roses and orchids: Add one crushed aspirin to one litre of lukewarm water

- For tropical flowers like anthuriums and heliconias it is best to use a bleach solution. Mix 1 qt. (1L) of water with 1/4 tsp. (1.2 ml) of bleach, or mix 1 qt. (1L) of water with 1 tsp. (5 ml) of sugar and 3 drops of bleach.

tips to Maintain Indoor Potted PlantsWhen selecting an indoor plant, select plants that will grow naturally under heavy shade. A good soil mix and proper watering and fertilization are key for the maintenance of attractive indoor plants; such plants are in high demand for public offices, banks and other industries.

sunlight: Select plants that do not need direct sunlight. Do not place the plant close to direct sun from windows or through glass. Remember glass will become a magnifying glass when sun shines directly through it and this can literally burn the edges of the plant.

Watering: Water every other day with a watering can and moisten the leaves as well with a spray of water, especially at the edges. Do not allow water to pool at the base of the plant.

soil & Growing Medium: Indoor potted plants must have good drainage and root aeration.

Pruning: Prune as required to remove all old leaves. This is best done just after watering.

Fertilizing: Depending on the plant, a foliar fertilizer once every three (3) months will be sufficient. Mix a handful of limestone to the soil at the base of the plant once a year to correct the soil pH.

Cleaning: Indoor plants require the cleaning of leaves at least once per week to remove dust and other contaminants.

• For non-hairy plants:- Use the inside of a ripe banana skin or peel to

clean the leaves. Believe it or not indoor plants shine with this natural product: Here’s is what you do after you have eaten a ripe banana: take the skin of the banana and directly wipe down both sides of each leaf on your houseplants. Aside from removing dirt, the banana peel shines the leaves and releases a pleasant odor. Once the banana peel is coated with dust and dirt, discard it and grab another.


Captivating cut flower arrangement

Using banana skin to clean leaves

the Horticultural society Celebrates 100 years2014 Flower ShowThe Horticulture Society of Trinidad and Tobago (HSTT) held its annual Flower Show from Friday 30th May to Sunday 1st June, 2014 at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain. Additionally, the HSTT commemorated its 100th anniversary this year. Some displays incorporated the symbolic ‘100’ within its foliage and blooms. The HSTT can boost of its accomplishments over the century. It has regularly participated in internationally renowned Flower Shows on several occasions and won numerous prizes. The most recent was the Gold Prize at the Chelsea Flower Show, London for the Presentation entitled “Colour Me T&T –Tribute to Cazabon.”

Patron of HSTT Her Excellency Mrs. Reema Harrysingh Carmona, wife of His Excellency Mr. Anthony Carmona, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and Mr. Paul Duval, President of HSTT, along with other members of the Society formally opened the Show with a ribbon cutting ceremony followed by an official tour of the exhibition. The Society showcased a remarkable floral design entitled “Down Memory Lane” which was dedicated to deceased persons who made significant contributions to the Horticulture Society.

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tips (continued)

- Another old trick is to use milk. Yes milk. Use a little bowl of milk and a soft cloth or cotton ball. Saturate the cloth or cotton with the milk and wipe the plants. The milk does not affect the health of the plant and gives the plant a lovely natural sheen.

temperature: For tropical plants, temperatures at night should never be below 18°C, and at day time temperatures should be between 21- 23°C.

relative Humidity: Refers to humidity in the air which should be more than 50% in the room. If humidity is too low, increased watering may be required, if humidity is too high, watering needs to be reduced.

For air Conditioned roomstemperature: Plants in air condition rooms should not be placed in direct contact with the air flow. These plants are tropical plants and they will not thrive very well in low temperatures. If the air condition is turned off for prolonged periods, the plant should be exposed to natural air.

The design was inspired by the song ‘Amazing Grace’ written by John Henry Newton. This song was written using the black notes of the piano thus the presentation incorporated an accurate depiction of a keyboard made from cut bamboo. Other floral arrangements incorporated tropical flowers such as ginger lillies, anthuriums and heliconias in traditional L-Shaped and triangular formations as well as free style arrangements.

The Flower Show included displays by garden shops, the Ministry of Food Production’s Horticultural Services and Research Divisions as well as the Cocoa and Coffee Industry Board (CCIB). As customary the Flower Show was preceded by the judging of booths and floral arrangements where participants earned gold, silver and bronze awards according to the standard of their presentation. A steady flow of patrons buzzed around the venue admiring the winning displays and purchasing plants. Patrons had an array of orchids, crotons, bougainvillea and roses to choose from and bonsai. The Flower Show also featured a hat competition where models showcased hats made of floral materials and live music was provided by an Ecuadorian band called Cayna that played music with instruments made of indigenous materials.

Using a soft cloth to clean leaves

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Become a Commercialornamental ProducerTrinidad and Tobago is well known worldwide for its beautiful plants and its rich ornamental diversity. In fact, since 1987 Trinidad and Tobago have won over 16 gold medals in the Chelsea Flower Show. The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most celebrated annual events in the world which showcases horticultural excellence. The Chelsea award is divided in four grades: gold, silver-gilt, silver and bronze, and the following categories: Show Gardens, Fresh Gardens, Artisan Gardens, Best Floristry and Great Pavilion.

Locally, the love for flowers is evident. Ornamentals bloom in every corner of the country, in households, factories, savannahs and even along highways. In Trinidad, bougainvilleas flourish in many beautiful colours and in most Latin countries they are actually known as “Trinitarias”. Other stunning local ornamentals are heliconias, bromeliads, anthuriums, orchids as well as crotons and ficus.

When it comes to commercial ornamental production we need a little more than just passion and love to succeed. There is a big difference between selling a few plants as a hobby to make some money and making a livelihood.

Here are a few tips to become profitable in this industry: 1) Know the business in which you want to invest Small or large commercial ornamental production is not just growing

plants for sale, as there are a range of possibilities in this industry. These include: flower arrangements, cut-flowers, nursery or garden shop, potted plants, landscaping and plant rentals to organisations and for events. We recommend that you decide your area of interest and the amount of money you would like to invest.

2) Know your markets Research the demand for your product and clearly identify your markets

and competitors. This is critical for the growth and sustainability of your business. This research is crucial in making a sound investment and increases the possibility of earning early profits.

Visit other ornamental producers such as nurseries and garden shops and

enquire if there is a need for your product. A key to success depends on how you implement the four P’s of marketing in your decisions: product, price, place and promotion.

3) Know Your Working Environment We are a Tropical country characterized by year round sunlight, a dry and

rainy season which will determine if you can have your business in an open environment or controlled environment. Rainy season leads to excess of soil moisture and floods; while dry season will bring increased temperatures and reduces water availability. Therefore access to good drainage, irrigation, shade (trees, saran net, and greenhouse) are important factors in commercial production to guarantee sustainability and consistency in the quality of the plants produced. At the same time remember each plant will have different requirements for water, light, temperature and drainage.

4) Know your plants It is always easier to work with one or two types of plants at a time as

their needs can easily be met. This system (one or two species) is ideal for the commercial production of cut flowers, rental plants and commercial production of potted plants. Risks increase when working with a single plant as pest and disease become more difficult to control and many result in the loss of the entire crop / investment.


T&T exhibit “Colour Me T&T” in Chelsea Flower Show, UK 2013- Gold Medal Photo Credit: Flickr user, Chris & Anglea Pye

On the other hand, working with several species of plants will require greater planning and resources, including land. You also need to group them according to their common environmental needs for easier plant maintenance and cost management.

The cost of operation for any ornamental commercial holding, either small or large will depend on how well you know the needs of your plants. As the operator you can control the following factors; light, water, pest and diseases, temperature by using Good Agronomic Practises (GAP). If any of these factors get out of control then cost and production will be impacted.

5) Know your cost of production Knowing how much it costs to produce a plant will determine the selling price

therefore in this business record keeping is critical if you would like to be sustainable and competitive.

Need to Import or Export Plants?The emphasis on local cut flowers for the export market has stimulated wide interest in the growing of ornamental plants, primarily orchids, anthuriums, ginger lilies and heliconias. This interest has also resulted in the desire to import large quantities of flowering plants in an effort to supply existing markets. However, one should be aware that importation should only be done after an Import Permit is obtained from the Plant Quarantine Office which forms part of the Research Division of the Ministry of Food Production. Plant Quarantine is the local authority responsible for all activities designed to prevent the introduction and/or spread of quarantine pest and diseases or to ensure their official control.

Why is an import permit necessary?the main reasons for this requirement are:

1. To ensure that plant(ing) material is not imported contrary to the Plant Protection Regulations. Eg. Prohibited material

2. To ensure that precautions are taken before shipping, to minimise the transfer of plant pests and diseases along with the material.

3. To avoid the introduction of plant(ing) material while serious pest and disease outbreaks are taking place in the countries of origin.

Under what conditions is an import permit granted?- Plants shall be bare rooted (to allow examination of roots) - Plants shall be free of all soil- Plants shall be treated with fungicide and an insecticide (in an effort to

have them free of pest and disease organisms)- Plants shall be accompanied by a Phytosanitary (Plant Health)

Certificate from the exporting country- Plants are subject to inspection on arrival by the Plant Quarantine

Officer

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Plant Quarantine offices, locations and contact numbers in trinidad and tobago:Central Coordinating Unit, Research Division,Centeno, Trinidad ....................................................................... 642-0718

Port of Spain office, Corner. St. Vincent St. andIndependence Sq. South, POS, Trinidad .................................. 625-3266

Container Examination Station, Port of Port of Spain,Trinidad ........................................................................................ 627-0044

Port of Pt. Lisas, Pt. Lisas, Trinidad .......................................... 636-2133

Container Examination Station, Port of Pt. Lisas, Trinidad .... 679-5277

Piarco International Airport, Piarco, Trinidad .......................... 669-4860

Scarborough Port, Scarborough, Tobago ................................ 639-5582

ANR Robinson International Airport, Tobago .......................... 639-0634

For information on obtaining and using the Import Permit check the Ministry’s website at www.agriculture.gov.tt Also find, Guidelines for Importation of Plants.

Export of ornamental PlantsOrnamentals may be exported subject to the Phytosanitary Regulations of the receiving country. Basically, plants should be free of soil, pests and disease organisims. Orchids and Cacti native to Trinidad and Tobago, should be accompanied by CITES Certificate, which would indicate that they are not on our endangered species list.

It is advisable that the Exporter should obtain through the consignee abroad, authorised permission for the entry of the material into that country to which the goods are being exported. The permission should also indicate any specific treatments or other special entry requirements that may be necessary prior to exporting such material. Advance export inspection arrangements may be made directly with the Quarantine Offices.

PenaltiesThe Plant Protection Act contains penalties that can be imposed on individuals who contravene articles of the Act. In general, penalties can be imposed on an individual for the following breaches:

1. Importing without an import permit.2. Failing to give notice to the Ministry of Food Production of the presence of a notifiable

pest or notifiable disease on his or her land.3. Impeding or obstructing a Plant Quarantine Officer in the execution of duties or powers

conferred to him or her by the Act or Regulations.4. Altering, forging, defacing or destroying any certificate or other document required by

the Act.5. Knowingly introduces any pest or disease onto cultivated land or to any plant cultivated

or not.6. Violating any of the provisions of the Act, Regulation or Order made thereunder7. Breaking a plant quarantine seal placed on a consignment of restricted article granted

permission to be removed from the port to a specified place pending inspection

12Seedling Production


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the Impact of the Horticultural services Division on ornamental Production in trinidad and tobagoBefore the mid-1980s the majority of cut flower arrangements in Trinidad and Tobago featured imported carnations, roses and chrysanthemums. This accounted for a high import bill for cut flowers and foliage, utilizing valuable foreign exchange. Tropical cut flowers were either not utilized at all or under-utilized. As a result a major initiative of the Horticultural Services Division (HSD) was to promote the appreciation and use of our tropical cut flowers and foliage. Anthuriums, heliconias, bromiliads, orchids, Musa spp. as well as Araceae such as the Dieffenbachias and Anglonemas came into focus.

In the early stages, floral arrangements using only tropical cut flowers and foliage were provided to the residences of the President and Prime Minister, then to the offices of senior public officials. As people began to observe and appreciate the beauty of our local tropical flowers, supply of arrangements were extended to all government functions, seminars and workshops. Eventually the HSD introduced potted plants to government offices to uplift the ambiance. In addition interior landscaping various types of tropical foliage plants were featured at major state functions.

A significant impact of showcasing our local flowers has been an increased awareness and appreciation for local flowers. Trinidad and Tobago

became an aggressive player in the export market with Dendrobium orchids, heliconias, anthuriums and ginger lilies. Between 2000-2009 the export of tropical cut flowers accounted for an average of $8M in revenue as opposed to $3.5M in imports. Unfortunately, from 2010 difficulties in the industry resulted in the decline in revenue from export of flowers.

However, our local bromeliads are fetching more than 100 Euros in the European market. The Aechmea dichlamydea var trinitensis with its vibrant red and purple flowers is a bromeliad endemic to our country, hence its name. It was discovered in Matura, Trinidad and its relative the Aechmea dichlamydea var tobagoniensis bears a yellow flower and is endemic to our sister isle Tobago. There is potential for research and development to explore the feasibility of exporting this variety.

some major achievements of the Ministry

• Introduction of new varieties at the Royal Botanic Gardens

• Propagation and sale of plants to the public at the La Pastora Propagation Station and St. Augustine Nurseries

• Provision of technical expertise used in the landscaping of important landmarks and newly developed institutions including:

- Brian Lara Promenade- Eric Williams Medical Sciences

Complex- Beetham Landfill- San Fernando Bypass- Devil’s Woodyard

• The HSD was also part of the Highways Beautification Steering Committee, in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and WASA. The HSD advised on the most appropriate plants, trees, shrubs to be used along our roadways.

For information on services offered by the Horticulture Services Division please visit the Ministry’s website at www.agriculture.gov.tt

Aechmea dichlamydea var trinitensis

Aechmea dichlamydea var tobagoniensis


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the Queen’s Park savannah - the lungs of the CityIn 1783, the Cedula of Population brought the Peschier family to Trinidad where they received approximately 232 acres of land to the north of Port of Spain, eventually establishing a sugar cane estate.

In 1816, Governor Sir Ralph Woodford was looking for a suitable site for an official residence and entered into negotiations with the Peschier family. Two parcels of land comprising 56 quarrees* were sold to the Cabildo, the colony’s governing body, by registered deed no.1219 of August 18, 1817 for the sum of £6000, to be paid in three instalments of £2000. The sale excluded a small portion of 6,600 sq ft, in the middle of the savannah where the Peschier family remains interred. To this day this portion remains reserved for the Peschier family.

In 1819 the Cabildo made another purchase costing £1661 and 2 shillings from the Baron of Montalambert and the Adde de la Quarree of Hollandais Estate. The parcel purchased seems to be the front portion of the Botanic Gardens including the President’s house. From the lands originally forming the Paradise and Hollandais estates, a portion totalling 232 acres was transferred to the Colonial Government. Out of that 199 acres of this was laid out as the Queen’s Park Savannah at a cost of £10,363.

The Savannah seems to have been mainly used for grazing of cattle. In 1853 horse racing meetings began and in 1854 the Grand Stand was erected with horse races being held annually. Cricket, polo, football and hockey were also played in the Savannah. The Town’s first golf course was also established for the residents. The cricket pavilion was erected in the 1890s. The last cricket match at the Savannah was played in 1896, when the club moved to the Oval and the Pavillion was demolished.

Around the turn of the 20th century, several successful cocoa planters and merchants built magnificent residences along the western side of the savannah, giving rise to the Magnificent Seven. These former residences are now recognised as Queen’s Royal College (QRC), Hayes Court (Residence of the Anglican Archbishop), Archbishop’s House (Residence of the Roman Catholic Archbishop), Whitehall (former office of the Prime Minister of T&T), Roomor, Mille Fleur, and Stollmeyer’s Castle (supposedly modelled on Balmoral Castle).

In 1902, the electric tramway started a pleasure car running around the inside of the railings on the Savannah from 4 to 10 pm at two cents a round. It proved to be very popular, especially on a Sunday afternoon, when the police band played in front of the Governor’s residence. The Savannah has also been described as the world’s largest traffic roundabout, the distance around the perimeter is about 2.2 miles (3.5 km).

In 1948 after the Town Hall fire the parade of the bands came to the Grand Stand and here it has remained to this day. Many masquerades insist that crossing the Savannah stage is the highlight of ‘playing mas’ on Carnival Monday and Tuesday.

The Queen’s Park Savannah in 1930

A cricket match at the Queen’s Park Savannah

Pink Pouis at the Queen’s Park Savannah


There are approximately 500 ornamental and other trees, some rare such as the Banyan tree, cannonballs, and baobabs from Africa in the Botanic Gardens. The HSD is hoping to add an additional 500 trees to achieve a canopy coverage over 10 to 15% of the surface area of the Queen’s Park Savannah. The Savannah is a gravel aquifer and these trees affect the charge and discharge of water from the aquifers beneath the Savannah. They also play a vital role in flood control, carbon sequestration, good air quality and humidity control of the environment.

Olga Mavrogordato in her book, Voices in the Street, says: “It is not easy to imagine Port of Spain without the Savannah. It plays a very important part in the lives of all of us…[it is] the lungs of the city”.

*(A quarree is a Spanish land measure used in surveying. 1 quarree is equivalent to 31/₅ acres).


orange Peel teaThe orange peel has always been valued for its curative properties. Traditionally, in Trinidad and Tobago orange peel tea has been widely used to cure common ailments ranging from fever, colds, coughs, indigestion, gas (wind pains) to stomach cramps.

After peeling the orange hang the peel in a cool dry place or place in the sun to hasten the process of drying. The peels can also be stored in an air tight bottle to keep it fresh.

Ingredients 1 piece of orange peel (approx. 15 cm) *1 1/2 cups water1 small clove of garlic (optional, for curing wind pains)brown sugar to taste*More can be added to make it stronger but excessive quantities will make it bitter.

Bring to a boil. • Add orange peel, garlic, ginger to boiling • water and leave covered to simmer for about five (5) minutes.Pour in a teacup and sweeten to taste. • You could also experiment by adding bay leaf, • or a cinnamon stick, or even a lime bud to your orange peel tea.

Do Not MoVE tHEsE MatErIals FroM sNaIl INFEstED arEas:• Diego Martin• Moka Heights Maraval• Mt. lambert• Invaders Bay and• aranguez south

the giant african snail can attach itself to any material and hitch a ride.tHE GIaNt aFrICaN sNaIl CaN sPrEaD MENINGItIs aND CaN CaUsE sErIoUs ECoNoMIC lossEs to aGrICUltUrE, traDE aND toUrIsM.

report all sightings to 646-6284 oremail pictures to [email protected]

DoN’t sPrEaD tHE GIaNt aFrICaN sNaIl a NotIFIaBlE PEst IN trINIDaD aND toBaGo (Act 13 of 1975)

soil Mulch Compost

Plant Debris

Plants

rubble

scrap Metal

landscape Material 15

16

Give us feedback on more of what you would like to see in this magazine: Corporate Communications, Tel: 628-1617 or 628-1618 Ministry of Food Production Fax: 628-0383#2 Serpentine Road, Email: [email protected]. Clair. P.O.S www.agriculture.gov.tt

Liesl Thomas (Editor) Lystra DonawaChandrawti Kissun Charmaine Lewis Rebecca BainCherryann DennisCarla Laurent

Elvira Ali Omaira Avila RostantSarah MaharajAllys ForteKimberly GayNirmala Ganessingh

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Ministry of Food Production

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