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CIPC: check your limits
Early dormancy break has been a particular problem this season, exacerbated further by warm autumn temperatures. This made it impossible, in some situations, to make initial applications at the appropriate timing (before sprout growth is initiated). As a consequence, inputs are likely to be higher as store managers try and regain control. Users of CIPC should remember though that no more than 36...
12 April 2012 -
Use diquat to control blight or viruses in outgrade piles
Diquat can help blight and/or virus control in outgrade piles, according to Potato Council blight specialist Gary Collins, who advises close monitoring of piles to prevent outbreaks. Sheeting and glyphosate have been the best available options since the loss of PDQ and dichlobenil, and the addition of diquat is to be welcomed as a control method. “Best practice is still...
5 April 2012 -
Wealth of topical information offered at popular Storage Forums
There was an excellent attendance at the recent Potato Council storage forums held at Sutton Bridge and Herefordshire Racecourse. Growers were rewarded with plenty of topical information to help improve their storage regimes. A surprising number of potato stores leak air making them energy inefficient and putting crop quality at risk from condensation. Air leakage...
5 April 2012 -
Are your employees trained to be safe?
Potato Council health and safety training, currently available on a DVD, will soon be available online to download from the website. Transporting potatoes can claim injuries if workers are not properly trained, leaving farm owners open to litigation, warns Potato Council technical executive Phil Bradshaw. “There is a legal duty of care for staff,” he emphasises. “There...
3 April 2012 -
Getting the most from rhizoctonia protection
Consistent product application is the secret of effective rhizoctonia prevention. Applicators are often quicker and more effective than hand applications. At planting, ensuring an even and consistent cover of powder treatment to prevent Rhizoctonia solani has a very positive impact on marketable yield, says Paul Goddard, Application and Stewardship manager for Bayer CropScience, who...
3 April 2012