Potato Review

22 POTATO REVIEW JULY/AUGUST 2022 HAULM DESTRUCTION Well-planned haulm destruction strategies key to e ective results We spoke to three specialists for their advice on haulm destruction and how to get the best results. In the rst article, Andrew Goodinson , Agronomist and Potato Specialist at Hutchinsons, gives his advice and insights. A MANAGED approach to potato haulm destruction needs to be planned well in advance as success depends on correct timing, method and environmental conditions, according to Andrew, who has been working for Hutchinsons for 16 years and looks after nearly 8000 ha of farmland, ranging from Cirencester, to the Welsh borders, south Shropshire and Worcester. Haulm destruction, which is usually carried out by desiccation, plays a crucial pre-harvest role as it stops the tubers bulking and allows their skins to set. is reduces the risk of losses from bacteria, fungus and bruising in the stored crop “When you have invested a lot of money and e ort into growing a good quality This Welsh seed crop, pictured two weeks before desiccation, shows how green canopy can be, and needs pre-spray before flail. WWW.AGRIMECH.CO.UK      +44 (0) 1354 638 222 The machines do the job they’re asked to do extremely well. Andrew Branton — Willowtree Farm PALLETISING / WEIGHING / STITCHING / PLACING