Potato Review

16 POTATO REVIEW JANUARY 2022 BP2021 impacting on crop uniformity and yields.” In addition, by having properly aerated soils, plants are less likely to be subjected to waterlogging, and therefore subject to less stress from moisture-related root diseases such as Phytophthora, he said. Moving on to talk about application, he said that while it should ideally be applied through an irrigation system, it can also be applied on the soil with a boom sprayer at pre or post-planting. “Normally a single application per season is sufficient, but depending on soil texture, a follow up may be needed,” he said. “Transformer reduces run-off and ensures better water use efficiency plus there is less fertiliser run-off, resulting in less wastage. “It also reduces potential run-off into rivers and streams – so it provides an important step forward in reducing the environmental impact.” Novel method of desiccation with hybrid innovation A new way of desiccating potato crops using a hybrid electric solution was presented to UK growers at BP2021. Developed by German agri-tech start-up CROP.ZONE, and marketed by Nufarm, the NUCROP system comprises application of a conductive fluid from a sprayer on the front of the tractor, which is then followed through with an electrical charge which is at the back. Talking on the stand at the show, Iain Allan of Nufarm said: “This system will offer an effective alternative to flailing or desiccants.” Test have shown to be safe for both ware and seed potatoes. “This year we were looking for proof of concept using the hybrid system, and we were very pleased with the results, particularly as an obvious crop effect was observed in just 20 minutes.” Further developments are planned for the years ahead such as wider booms and use in other crop situations such as inter row in vegetable crops “Trials and demonstrations for potato desiccation in the UK will continue next year as we develop tailored guidance for varieties and situations .” The NUCROP system will be commercialised in parts of Europe in 2022. New company Potato Storage Insight showcased Attending its first event, Potato Storage Insight, a new, independent specialist storage advice company, drew a lot of people to its stand at BP2021. Founded by Adrian Cunnington, who led research as head of Sutton Bridge Crop Storage Research (SBCSR) for more than 30 years, the company will offer bespoke consultancy and advice for seed and ware storage. As part of his previous role, he supported the potato industry by not only doing research but also ensured a practical element so findings could be implemented by store managers of both small and large enterprises. Adrian has found there to be considerable demand for training, which he views as key to the future of the industry. Responding to this, he will be holding store managers courses, as well as tailored training at different levels, BASIS training and discussion groups. Adrian said: “Our first store managers course is programmed for March, and will be covering all aspects of store management from ventilation, sprout suppression and cost control. People coming to the stand and have already shown quite a lot of interest in it.” There are also plans to release a regular storage e-bulletin to keep subscribers up to date with any seasonal storage concerns or issues and practical advice on keeping costs down. “We will be offering store managers and growers a comprehensive package whereby we will make store analysis visits to detect any factors which may be affecting tuber quality – such as airflow or insulation – so that we can then identify any appropriate remedial activities.” Other activities Adrian will be undertaking include store design advice, grant application advice and dispute mitigation. “A soil conditioner reduces the surface tension of water. It can infiltrate into smaller pores and therefore the water can spread over a larger area.” Andrew Zengerink, Oro Agri