Farm-saved spud seed reminder

POTATO GROWERS using farm-saved seed should have stocks tested before planting to avoid problems with next year’s crops, urges NIAB.

Tests have found no major virus problems, but growers should not become complacent, warns pathologist David Kenyon.

Levels of Potato Virus A are much lower than in previous years and potato leaf roll virus incidence is also lower. Potato Virus Y infection remains broadly unchanged.

“Potato growers are looking for assurance that their farm-saved seed stock is healthy before they put it into the ground,” says Dr Kenyon.