Seed - Fungicide Treatment for Seed Stocks

Harvesting of seed crops is rapidly approaching and in some cases has already begun. Fungicide treatment of seed either at lifting or splitting into store provides the most effective control of the major storage disease in potatoes. We are recommending the application of fungicides as set out in the table below. The rates given are of product per tonne; it is then usual to apply these product rates in 1.0�2.0 l/tonne of water.





Despite the extra cost, Extratect is our preferred option for the damage susceptible varieties that we export. Stocks can be difficult to source and if you need help please call us.



<b>Minimising Damage</b>



The importance of harvester setup cannot be overemphasized and it is worth spending some time with the machine when you start lifting. Last season we compared damage levels across all our growers and there were significant differences.



This year we are offering two prizes of a bottle of Whisky to the harvester operators (not growers!) who lift the lowest assessed damage level in any stock with a separate prize for the lowest damage level in a stock of Atlantic, Kennebec, Red Pontiac or Spunta.



<b>Soft Rotting</b>



We are very concerned about the levels of blighted tubers already found in test digs from some areas. This raises the spectre of soft rotting problems in store and possible stock losses especially among blight susceptible varieties (are there any other sort!).



The wet soil conditions in many areas and the high blight pressure are going to make it imperative that soft rots are removed on the harvester where possible. Growers who split into store should consider their options if they have a stock with a known problem with either blight or blackleg. Lifting that stock direct into boxes may be the best approach. Again feel free to call us and discuss any particular concerns you have.



Please give John Adam any information relating to a stock with a known problem.



Good luck with harvest and here�s hoping for better lifting weather than we�ve had growing