The learning curve in tackling potato pest

With particular focus on Potato Cyst Nematode, which is a historical problem in the area, demonstrations were carried out at Heal Farms in Shawbury, the home of Strategic Potato Farm West.

With their first year under their belt, farm manager Matthew Wallace knew that tackling PCN was never going to be an easy task.

Matthew explained: “I moved to Shropshire from York two years ago. Obviously I was aware of the problem, but I didn’t realise just how vast the problem was.

“Rented land in the area is highly competitive and can be quite pricey, but even those with better conditions find the disease at low levels.

“The difference from field to field compares to nowhere else in the UK, so we really wanted to test tolerance and resistance. This is why our relationship with Harper Adams University is the most logical answer.

“Their research into PCN can help support local growers, and the industry as a whole, so it’s a learning curve for everyone.”

Providing fresh focus, research carried out at SPot West offered a forum for scientists, growers, agronomists and other experts to discuss control methods and how the threat of infestation can be spotted.

While there is no single method of PCN control, most experts will recommend an ‘integrated approach’. Local and historical conditions will have a large impact on the final mix of methods chosen.

SPot West emphasises varietal resistance control above all others. In most situations of severe infestation use of resistant varieties is crucial for control of PCN.

In 2018 SPot West will be looking at alternative approaches for nematicide incorporation and nematicide combinations, which benefit both the environment as well as production yield.

You can keep up to date with from demonstrations carried out at SPot West by visiting our webpage - https://potatoes.ahdb.org.uk/SPotWest

Dr Anne Stone, AHDB Potatoes Knowledge Exchange Manager.