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"It is expected that the introduction of squash would be welcomed by farmers and the market as it suits local cultivation environment, as well as the taste of local residents," said Ms Ko.
"It also provides another choice for farmers in vegetable production."
At today's seminar, participants learned to use environmentally friendly measures in pest and disease control of gourds, such as the preparation of poison baits to control melon fly.
The seminar also included lectures given by AFD officers, slide show and field demonstration.
The function was jointly organised by AFD and the Federation of Vegetable Marketing Co-operative Societies Ltd., as part of the department's regular programmes to transfer technical know-how to local farmers.
Further enquiries on issues relating to crop cultivation and pest management can be directed to AFD's Horticulture Section (2679 4294)or Plant Protection Section (2679 4354).
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