Scottish growers get new potato virus testing service

Scottish potato growers have a new option for checking seed stocks for viruses following the recent launch of a commercial testing service by SAC Consulting (part of SRUC).

The service has been established to help fill the gap left by Science & Advice for Scottish Agriculture’s (Sasa’s) withdrawal from commercial potato virus testing.

Demand has already exceeded expectations, with seed export customers among the first to submit samples of this season’s seed crops.

SAC Consulting’s potato consultant Kyran Maloney says losing an established provider this year was concerning, particularly after two seasons of increased virus pressure.

See also: How Cotswold potato grower produces high-quality seed

Although growers can use other testing providers, including Fera and Niab in England, retaining a Scottish service was important. That’s why Sasa approached SAC Consulting and the James Hutton Institute to see if it could fill the gap.

“We were keen to step up and support the industry and provide some continuity for Scottish growers. We believe we can grow our offering and continue to deliver a great service.”

Kyran adds that the service has kept prices at Sasa’s previous level for the first year to provide continuity for customers, although charges will be reviewed on an annual basis.

Submitting samples

Growers and merchants considering testing should contact the team early to discuss their requirements and arrange sample submission.

Representative sampling is also essential, says Dr Verena Schmidt, who has led the service’s technical development. “Our test results can only be as good as the sampling technique,” she says.

Tubers with incompletely set skins need particularly careful handling, while wet conditions can make sample preparation more demanding.

Kyran says increased demand suggests merchants are increasingly testing stocks and using results to inform decisions.

However, untested material and uneven adoption of control measures remain weaknesses, making a whole-industry approach necessary.

Wider diagnostic role

The expanded laboratory capacity also supports the existing powdery scab risk assessment service, offered between October and March when demand overlaps with virus testing.

Kyran says growers are incorporating powdery scab results into pre-planting decisions alongside soil analysis and potato cyst nematode status, helping guide site and variety choices.

The test is not always a perfect predictor of risk, but can contribute to integrated pest management, particularly where seed potato growers need to protect crop health.

There are also tests available for diseases such as black dot, with scope to provide more diagnostic work if demand makes it commercially viable.

Kyran advises that growers with sufficient sample numbers discuss their needs with the team.

“The priority is developing services around growers’ problems; with results they can act on.

“The larger virus testing operation should help support that wider diagnostic capability,” he concludes.

To reserve testing capacity, discuss requirements, or obtain sampling advice, visit the SAC website for more information.