Seed survey shows knowledge gap
Growers may need to follow some simple storage steps in order to preserve the quality of seed potatoes and prevent any disease developing after delivery on farm, says one expert.
Delays to planting because of the difficult soil conditions could see growers having to store seed for longer than in previous years. But a recent survey shows there is a clear knowledge gap in growers’ understanding of what to do with seed post-delivery.
Potato Council plant pathologist Glyn Harper says growers should ideally decant seed into CIPC-free boxes within a fortnight, or earlier if possible.
“The biggest concern with leaving seed in jumbo bags is poor airflow, which allows condensation to build up in the middle of the bags. This could lead to the development of disease which can be up to six times as fast as normal.”
The key advice to growers is to facilitate as much ventilation as possible through stacking the bags off the floor with plenty of space between them, thereby minimising temperature variances.
Dr Harper pointed to a Sutton Bridge experiment comparing “best” practice short-term storage where seed was decanted into boxes, with a “worst” practice scenario where seed remained in the bags for a six-week period, and were subjected to fluctuating temperatures
“Even though the experiment was conducted in winter, the sprouting that occurred in the bagged seed was up to 2.5mm compared with minimal levels in the decanted stocks.
Dr Harper also noted a marked difference in levels of silver scurf.
For seed that has to be stored for more than two weeks, Potato Council advises that once decanted, the seed should be cured, placed in a seed store and cooled to about 3C.
When this is unavailable, temporary ventilation will be necessary. This can be done by constructing a temporary plenum chamber with either boarding or canvas for use with a portable fan. This method will require regular inspection of seed condition as well as checking, temperature and modifying airflow as required.
Potato Council communications officer Sophie Lock adds that growers should steer clear of jumbo bags as a long-term storage option.
“Jumbo bags are not good storage vessels. While it is best to decant seed immediately after delivery, it is acceptable to leave seed in bags a few days after delivery,” she says.
More on potato storage and CIPC use
