Potato Review

www.potatoreview.com POTATO REVIEW MAY/JUNE 2021 33 MACHINERY FOCUS: HAULM PULLING and ensuring that rows are effectively closed following the pass. Via spring-loaded haulm guides, the haulm is brought to the intake drums along with a small amount of ground that is directed to the pull discs. Next to the pull discs are stainless steel gliders that prevent potatoes from being pulled out of the row. As soon as the flow of haulm-with- ground leaves the pull discs, it is guided to the diabolo rollers which then gently press the loose soil. The company says this results in well- covered potatoes and closed rows which are resistant to weather influences. Edward Gilbert, Sales &Marketing Director of Standen in the UK, said: “Not only is there compelling evidence that there are cost savings to be achieved with haulm pulling versus other “Trial growers they reported much lower, in fact zero, rhizoctonia rates in the pulled fields. haulm destruction methods, but according to several of their trial growers they reported much lower, in fact zero, rhizoctonia rates in the pulled fields, being able to harvest approximately 2.5 weeks earlier, harder skins, which reduced crop damage, as well as a faster and better harvest as the soil sieved better through the harvester on account of a fully broken connection between the tuber and the stem.” The machine is carried on the rear of the tractor, and all elements are independently suspended to follow undulations. The haulm guides are following the rows and can be adjusted in all directions by means of one bolt. The speed of the pull discs is variable, adjustable from the cab and the working depth is adjustable via a spindle on the back of the machine. ‘Growth stop is immediate” “By pulling potato haulm, spraying or burning, the crop can be avoided at least once or maybe twice. In many cases, spraying is no longer necessary at all,” a company spokesman said. “With haulm pulling, the moment of growth stop is immediate with efficient stolon separation and therefore passive bulking is prevented. The hardening process takes much less time than relying on the time lag between herbicide application and it starting to be effective. “The result is much less time between haulm pulling and harvest, with skin set achieved in as little as 10 days. This reduction in time between hardening and harvest also reduces the likelihood of rhizoctonia infection taking hold, particularly important for seed producers.” Capacity was based on using four-row machines on each trial area. Topping and haulm pulling was completed in a one pass operation. Costs factored in included tractor running costs, sprayer running and maintenance costs, man hours and chemical input costs where applicable. There are four models to choose from, including two-row, four-row and six-row options. Options include load sensing hydraulics, and hydraulic lifting of the individual pulling elements. The Vegniek DiscMaster is only available in the UK and Ireland via Standen Imports.