Since the promotion of automated seeding in the 1980s, Taiwan's vegetable nursery industry has achieved significant scale. However, highly intensive production environments pose high risks for pest and disease transmission, particularly for cucurbit crops, which are susceptible to approximately 10 types of viruses. As no chemical treatments exist for these viral diseases, using "healthy seedlings" and rigorous field sanitation are critical prevention strategies. This project aims to construct an environmental verification system for cucurbit nurseries to manage risks at the source. For the fiscal year 115, the focus shifts from standard establishment to practical implementation and diffusion. We will utilize the established "Five-Ring" checklist (substrate, facility, water, seedlings, personnel) to guide at least 3 to 6 nurseries in conducting self-management assessments. Furthermore, we will provide improvement planning and cost analysis for identified weaknesses to help operators evaluate the economic feasibility of adopting the verification system. In collaboration with the Taiwan Vegetable Seedling Association, we will organize seminars to address emerging disease issues related to climate change, aiming to enhance the industry's autonomous quality control capabilities and ensure a stable supply of high-quality healthy seedlings.

▲The picture shows a special lecture on the management of diseases and pests in seedling nurseries during the event.