Potatoes Safe irrigation, profitable crops With the world facing difficult times, and the potato market in turmoil owing to different parts of the retail market not trading, it can be difficult to know which market to supply, says irrigation supplier Wroot Water. One of the main aspects of producing a saleable, profitable crop is getting the irrigation right – specifically the ‘right amount’ in the ‘right place’ at the ‘right time’, the company says. When we look at the right amount, this is putting the water on to match the infiltration of the soil – not too much, not too little. The right place is even distribution of water over the whole field, or placing the water where it is required. The right time is to maintain the correct soil
moisture deficit, and match crop requirements. Getting this right can reduce crop stress and potentially lead to a more profitable crop. Many growers find it difficult to achieve in times of very dry weather, however, and the main factor is not having enough equipment, which leads to long working hours. Accidents generally happen when the pressure is on, so remember high pressure water and burst pipes can seriously injure people. To avoid incidents, it is good practice at the beginning of the season to do a risk assessment and method statement for all field operations, so that any potential incidents can be identified before work starts. FG
Bio-stimulants for potato production With the increased use of biostimulants in crop production, MJP Supplies believes it is well placed with its product, Algifol. A concentrated bio-stimulant made from brown algae, it’s gathered from the ocean, dried and refined through special processes. Scientific evidence suggests that chemicals from seaweeds can influence plant growth and help in the defence against attack by pests and pathogens. Chemicals which may be involved include: cytokinins, auxins and betains. Data shows that seaweed extracts will not provide total control of nematodes. However, when integrated into a program with other forms of control, seaweed extracts may play a significant role in plant protection as well as offering other benefits such as higher yields and better quality produce. For potatoes, MJP Supplies recommends applying 3–4 litres of Algifol per hectare through the growing season. It’s compatible with all blight sprays, making it an easy fit amongst your regular
spraying program. The company claims to have seen the results, as have its customers across the country, from better quality produce to more marketable yield. Plus, a higher immune system of the plant, fighting disease and pest attack. Algifol helps stimulate root growth, assisting the plant to uptake nutrients and water. In extreme weather conditions; drought or water logging, Algifol has proved to help plants recover quickly. Algifol can be supplied in 10-litre cans for ease of use, which can be delivered straight from the company’s store. FG
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