Potato Review

www.potatoreview.com SUSTAINABLE FARMING “We had a higher saleable seed yield,” reported Jim. “This is possibly due to the straw providing insulation during the cold spring last year and then helping with moisture retention during a dry May,” he explained, suggesting that this is something high grade growers could be using as an alternative to chemicals. Scottish Agronomy has been working closely with the Spot project, to offer agronomic advice and support, as well as oversee the range of work Jim has been conducting. “The team at Scottish Agronomy has put a lot of work into the trial assessments,” Jim continued. “People would not believe the amount of hand digging which has been carried out. It has been a great partnership from the start and the team at McCain have also been extremely supportive.” Eric Anderson of Scottish Agronomy is overseeing the range of work being undertaken on the sPot farm. “Working closely with Jim, and the team at McCain, we have been able to look at practical aspects on a real seed farm and demonstrate tangible solutions to the wider seed sector,” said Eric. “The future of seed potato growing is changing rapidly,” he continued. “We need to look at the dynamics of biology and ecology and how we can best practice Integrated Pest Management. “With the demise of AHDB potatoes there will be a small window of opportunity available for the industry to come together and coordinate the best use of limited resources. It is important that all feel part of the discussion, if we are to find an acceptable solution. “It is an unfortunate fact, that applied research and industry innovation is a costly business. However, a grower funded and led body would be an excellent position to leverage additional funding from other research providers and thereby provide value for money. There must be a plan in place to ensure near market research and development continues but this must be driven by growers for growers,” Eric said. “What we have achieved is translational science at a practical level and we want to see a continuation of this vital work being conducted and funded on a seed innovation platform farm going forward.” “The future of seed potato growing is changing rapidly. We need to look at the dynamics of biology and ecology.” A Lechler IDTA nozzle. www. tongengineering .com e: sales@tongengineering.com t: +44 (0)1790 752771 > Gentle Handling > Advanced Design > Intelligent Control INNOVATIVE DESIGN FROM FARM TO PACK TURNKEY PROCESSING SOLUTIONS OPTICAL SORTING IN-FIELD & ON-FARM UNRIVALLEDCLEANING&GRADING ADVANCED BOX HANDLING WASHING & POLISHING THE COMPLETE SOLUTION Designed with you in mind