Potato Review

Advertorial Of the stress factors listed to be affecting potato crops in most seasons, high temperatures were seen to have the most important in uence. The survey revealed more than 80% believe that biostimulants have a role in their potato agronomy – with nearly 60% of them seeing that role as signi cant. Syngenta potato campaign manager, Mark Britton, believes the survey demonstrates growers’ demand for the potential of the new biostimulant technology, Quantis. “Growers see drought and temperature as the most important crop stresses, with the greatest number seeing temperature as having the highest effect. “With changing climatic conditions, including the more frequent occurrence of extreme or prolonged high temperatures and drought periods, a better understanding of biostimulant functions will enable more precise tailoring of Quantis timing against speci c crop stresses,” he suggested. Heat Effects Quantis trials over successive seasons - including what is believed to be the UK’s most extensive ever eld trial of a biostimulant in potatoes - has shown a correlation between the effects of prolonged or extreme heat events on crop yields and the signi cant positive responses to treatment. “Acting directly as an anti-oxidant, Quantis could be helping to counter reactive oxygen species (free radicals) that can cause signi cant damage, particularly within the foliage if leaves get too hot,” advised Mr Britton. “It is believed to activate and enhance the potato plant’s natural capability to adapt to heat stress, to prevent damage.” Furthermore, Quantis also provides osmoprotectant regulators to help plants manage cell osmosis, which could help contribute to the heat stress mitigation. The Syngenta biostimulants survey identi ed some 45% of survey respondents already use biostimulants every season, with a further 38% intending to try their use in the future. It also indicated nearly three-quarters would typically consider making two to four applications through the season. Around 10% would consider making more than four treatments in the growing crop. “Of those using biostimulants, around a third reported they would be using them routinely all season long, with nearly two thirds looking at applications when stressful periods are likely to occur,” highlighted Mr Britton. Deeper Understanding Pinpointing some of the future areas of biostimulant research and understanding, the survey showed around half had some knowledge of the role of anti-oxidants in maintaining plant health, but only 5% felt it was well known. On the role of osmoprotectants, two thirds were unaware of the effects on potato crop health and yields. “Every one of the survey respondents acknowledged they need to learn more about plant stress and biostimulants,” added Mr Britton. “It’s a gap we will be focusing on ful lling with trials and research over the coming seasons.” Syngenta UK Ltd. Registered in England No. 849037. CPC4, Capital Park, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5XE Tel: 01223 883400 Fax: 01223 882195 Technical Enquiries Tel: 0800 169 6058 Email: customer.services@syngenta.com QUANTIS ® is a Registered Trademark of Syngenta Group Company. All other brand names used are Trademarks of other manufacturers in which proprietary rights may exist. Always read the label and product information before use. For further product information, including warning phrases and symbols, refer to www.syngenta.co.uk Syngenta Potato Biostimulant Survey 2021 – 29 respondents from all potato growers, agronomists and industry specialists. For full details visit: www.syngenta.co.uk Hot tips on biostimulant use Crop stress is now recognised as a significant factor in potato agronomy decisions by over three-quarters of UK growers and agronomists, according to results from a new Syngenta biostimulants survey.