Now-widespread use means a lot has been learned about getting the most out of it as a sprout suppressant as well as for reducing volunteers between potato crops.

Healthy canopy

For independent Shropshire-based agronomist Graeme Ditty, one of the most important lessons has been applying Crown MH to healthy, stress-free crops.

Almost all his processing crops are treated when destined for medium to long-term storage, with varieties known to have relatively short dormancy a priority.

“You really need a healthy crop to apply to with tubers at the marketable size, which for us is 25mm or above. We’ve also encouraged growers to put it on with 400-litres/ha of water as standard, which helps,” explains Graeme.

Weather conditions at application are vital, with cool temperatures and high relative humidity, in addition to the higher water rate, extending the time it takes for the spray solution to dry on the leaf, improving uptake of the active substance.

A key message is that crops must be treated 3–5 weeks before desiccation.

Good communication

Frontier advisor Ben Naylor, who oversees potato crops across Shropshire and into Herefordshire, says the window is a good guide, but crop and environmental conditions must be right too.

He has also found that these factors and good communication between himself and clients have achieved great results with products like Crown MH in recent seasons.

“We’ve worked hard on getting across the reasons why we need a healthy crop, a higher water volume and cool and humid conditions. It’s more than just writing a recommendation,” he explains.

If there is any uncertainty about when to apply, he adds that a quick conversation over the phone leads to the best decision, whether that’s applying slightly earlier than planned, or a week later.

“Don’t let it become too prescriptive and worry about where you are with desiccation date. If the crop is stressed, you’re better off waiting for things to improve,” adds Ben.

Liquid formulation

Both agronomists have seen preference for the liquid formulation Crown MH growing over recent seasons with the product supplied in 600 litre IBCs that are transferred to the sprayer via the Fastran closed transfer system.

 Graeme says with the application rate at 11-litres/ha and many potato growers having large self-propelled sprayers to fill and significant areas to cover quickly, the advantages for operational efficiencies by using the liquid are clear.

It also contains an anti-foam formulation, which means sprayer operators are not slowed down by excessive foaming that is often experienced when ripping and tipping bags of granular product into the tank.

“They can pull up to the IBC system, meter out the exact quantity of product and move on, so it makes the job a lot easier,” he explains.

Satellite fill-ups

For smaller areas the flexibility of 20-litre cans of Crown MH has been retained.

With many potato growers, particularly in the west of the country, having individual or small groups of rented fields to treat, sprayers need to fill up away from the main yard.

“Sometimes from a logistical point of view, it’s easier for someone to drop off a few 20-litre cans at the filling point than a 600-litre IBC, which will require a forklift to move it around,” Ben explains.

Following good application and uptake, Ben has seen good results in store, helping to reduce the need for any in-store treatments, which on a per tonne basis are more costly than an application of MH.

He’s also seen far fewer volunteers across rotations where potatoes are grown since the product has become a routine part of potato
crop protection programmes.

This helps reduce potential sources of disease inoculum, including late blight and virus, and reduces multiplication of soil-borne pests like potato cyst nematode (PCN). “Maleic hydrazide is very much a part of growing stored potatoes now,” concludes Ben.

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The unprecedented global summit saw experts discuss the impact of the withdrawal of mancozeb – as the European Union’s General Court prepares to hear its renewal case on 1^st July.

The summit comprised farmers, researchers, and agriculture experts from around the globe and was hosted by the Center of Excellence in Regulatory Science in Agriculture (CERSA), supported by UPL Corporation Ltd.

In his opening remarks, UPL Corp CEO Mike Frank said the multi-site fungicide is a foundational technology for disease protection in plants.

“It’s particularly crucial for growers managing fungal diseases in crops like bananas, soybeans, potatoes, and fruits and vegetables. It provides reliable, multi-site protection, helping prevent resistance build-up and ensuring consistent yields. 

“These conversations are vital for the future of farming and the well-being of our planet.”

Mancozeb was revoked in the EU in 2020 and in the UK in 2024.

Earlier this month it was announced that the European Court of Justice had set the renewal hearing for 1^stJuly. 

The EU High Court case cited various procedural errors, challenging the decision of the General Court, which supported the European Commission’s decision to withdraw the authorisation of Mancozeb in 2020.

READ MORE: AHDB’s latest planting and variety survey: ‘Growers had to fight the weather again’
READ MORE: GB Potatoes announces new partnership to secure crop protection tools

Severe consequences

Attendees at the summit heard that since mancozeb’s withdrawal, farmers across Europe and beyond have faced increased challenges controlling fungal diseases and resistance to single-site fungicides. 

Mancozeb’s absence has significantly impacted potato, fruit, and vegetable growers who used the cost-effective tool for its multi-site action to protect against disease while managing resistance.

“We want to apply fewer pesticides to our crops, and a multi-site tool like mancozeb helps us do this,” said Catarina Pereira from Porbatata, the Portuguese Potato Association. 

“Without mancozeb, farmers are forced to use alternative products that are costlier and require higher volumes.”

Experts noted severe consequences of mancozeb’s absence, particularly regarding the management of diseases like potato blight. 

Strains resistant to carboxylic acid amide and oxathiapiprolin fungicides caused widespread devastation in regions like the Netherlands, Northern Germany, and Denmark in 2022 and 2023. 

French farmer and FEDEPOM representative Jean-Paul Deneuville commented: “Some growers lost whole crops to potato blight in 2024. Without mancozeb, farmers are applying 2–3 times more fungicides, significantly increasing costs.”

Impact on fruit growing

Fruit growers have also felt the impact. “Mancozeb was one of three tools available for apple scab management,” said Xavier Le Clanche of the Association Nationale Pommes Poires. 

“Losing mancozeb has reduced our ability to combat scab and left us with no solution against rust diseases. Growers are now faced with difficult decisions about replanting crops or shifting production entirely in some historical production areas.”

Accelerating resistance

David Cooke from the James Hutton Institute noted: “The lack of mancozeb in fungicide programs was a contributing factor to the spread of resistant strains. Reintroducing this tool can protect other products and help manage resistance.”

Delegates at the summit anticipate that the upcoming EU Court hearing will provide an opportunity to re-evaluate the 2020 decision. 

French potato producer representative Oriane Vialle-Guerin explained: “The more you limit the number of approved crop protection solutions, the more pressure you place on those remaining, and this accelerates resistance issues.”

Hope for meaningful progress 

Farmers and industry experts at the summit voiced hope for a decision that would prioritise food security and affordability across Europe. 

Portuguese representatives highlighted the positive impact of mancozeb’s reinstatement, not just for crop protection but for cost management, sustainability, and fewer pesticide applications overall.

Adrian Percy, executive director of the NC Plant Sciences Initiative (N.C. PSI) at North Carolina State University expressed optimism about the summit’s role in driving meaningful progress. 

“This dialogue on the science, real-world applications, and a path forward for mancozeb is essential. Giving farmers access to the tools they need isn’t just about farming; it’s about securing food production and sustainability for future generations.”

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GB Potatoes said that this important step has been made possible through the grant secured from AHDB, using the remaining Potato Levy funds.

HCP was created by the UK horticultural sector to take on the essential task of processing Extension of Authorisation for Minor Use (EAMU) and Emergency Authorisation (EA) applications for crop protection products.

These applications are made to the Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD) of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for products that plant protection companies typically won’t pursue due to small market size and high application costs.

EAMU and EA applications are costly, technically demanding, and time-consuming, making them nearly impossible for individual seed potato growers. Once authorised through HCP, the products become available to all growers of the crop – providing sector-wide benefit.

To manage this process, GB Potatoes will act as secretariat for a newly formed Technical Working Group. This group will include agronomists, seed growers, and representatives from industry bodies.

Together, they will collaborate with HCP to assess and prioritise the seed sector’s plant protection needs.

This effort aligns with GB Potatoes’ mission: bringing together the supply chain to address industry-wide challenges and ensure a robust, sustainable future for potato production in Great Britain.

‘Practical, collaborative step’

Scott Walker, CEO of GB Potatoes, said: “This partnership with HCP gives the British seed potato sector a much-needed route to secure critical crop protection tools.

“By bringing together agronomists, seed growers, and industry bodies through the new technical working group, we can prioritise the sector’s needs and work closely with HCP to secure the crop protection tools our seed potato industry requires.

“The grant we have secured from AHDB, using the remaining Potato Levy funds, is being used strategically to support this effort.  It is a practical, collaborative step that will benefit not only seed producers, but the entire supply chain that relies on healthy, high-grade seed.” 

At the heart of the group’s work will be the development and upkeep of a Potato Risk Register – a document that highlights major pest, disease, and weed threats and identifies gaps in available plant protection products (PPPs). 

Leveraging HCP’s technical expertise, the group will assess which products are most likely to receive authorisation.  Regular meetings will use the Risk Register to determine where EAMU or EA applications are most urgently needed. 

This intelligence will guide engagement with agrochemical companies, who evaluate whether they have existing or pipeline products that could meet the sector’s needs.   

Securing future of high-grade seed

High-grade seed potato production underpins the entire British potato industry. The quality and health of seed directly influence the success of ware production and the wider supply chain.

However, regulatory changes and the loss of key crop protection tools – including insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides – are making seed production increasingly difficult.

Thanks to this collaboration with HCP, supported by residual Potato Levy funds, the seed potato sector now has a structured pathway to pursue essential authorisations. While seed growers are the immediate beneficiaries, the broader industry also stands to gain, GB Potatoes explained.

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Potato producer and distributer Patatas Meléndez, has completed a major infrastructure project at its main facility in Spain, now one of Europe’s most advanced post-harvest operations.

Patatas Meléndez, a leading company in the cultivation, selection, and distribution of potatoes in Spain, has completed a major infrastructure project at its main facility in Medina del Campo, now regarded as one of the most advanced post-harvest operations in Europe.

This development marks a decisive step towards automation, digitalisation, and sustainability in the potato sector.

A cornerstone of the facility upgrade was the integration of a custom-designed wash line and selected packing line elements, supplied by Wyma, a global specialist in post-harvest solutions for vegetable handling.

Wyma’s role focused on providing gentle, efficient washing and handling equipment, tailored to fit within a wider, multi-supplier facility layout.

The company worked closely with Patatas Melendez’s internal engineering, quality, and IT departments from the initial consultation stage through to design, installation, and after-sales support.

The objective was to ensure the new systems aligned with operational goals around product quality, line efficiency, and traceability.

Focus on gentle handling and efficiency

One of the guiding principles for Patatas Meléndez was to “treat the potato like a fruit” – minimising damage through careful handling.

The wash line supplied by Wyma was developed to protect product integrity throughout the cleaning process while maintaining high throughput.

Low-impact water transport systems, rotary polishing, and integrated dirt and debris separation were all tailored to Melendez’s product characteristics and quality standards.

At the packing end, selected Wyma equipment was integrated with lines from other suppliers to deliver streamlined throughput and reduce manual handling.

The entire system was designed with automation and worker safety in mind, resulting in a significantly safer and more controlled operating environment.

Results that reflect a step change

Since commissioning, the facility has delivered impressive performance improvements:

• Packaging capacity has doubled, from 65 to 130 pallets per hour
• Energy consumption has been reduced by 17%, through more efficient machinery and system integration
• Water usage is down 30%, supported by recycling and filtration technologies
• Product damage has dropped noticeably, thanks to gentle handling systems and better control
• Digital monitoring systems now provide real-time data for operators and improved supply chain visibility.

These improvements have enabled Patatas Meléndez to process more potatoes, more efficiently, and with greater consistency than ever before. The increased capacity and resource efficiency also support the company’s broader sustainability and growth goals.

Looking ahead

With this new facility, Patatas Meléndez is well positioned to lead the next generation of potato processing in Europe.

Expansion plans are already underway, with additional washing and packing capacity being considered to meet growing domestic and export demand.

Wyma continues to support the plant with technical service, training, and performance optimisation, reinforcing its role as a long-term partner in Patatas Meléndez’s growth journey.

To see the full story – including customer interviews and facility imagery – visit here.

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Wireworms (Agriotes spp.), the larvae of click beetles from the Elateridae family, pose a significant risk to potato cultivation.

These slender, cylindrical larvae feed on underground plant parts, including potato tubers, creating tunnels and lesions that compromise quality and marketability.

Infestations can lead to reduced yields, increased susceptibility to other pests and diseases, and severe economic losses for farmers.

Recognising wireworm infestations

Several key indicators signal wireworm activity in potato fields.

Damaged tubers often exhibit irregular or shallow holes, along with tunnels and feeding marks.

In the early growth stages, wilting or stunted plant development may indicate root damage.

Monitoring adult click beetles, which lay eggs in the soil, helps predict infestations and provides insights into the species present and their life cycle.

Digging soil samples to check for wireworm larvae – slender, cylindrical, and typically yellow to brown – is the primary method for confirming an infestation.

Effective control with beneficial nematodes

Entomopathogenic nematodes, commonly known as beneficial nematodes, are microscopic roundworms that naturally parasitise insect pests, playing a crucial role in biological control.

Research has demonstrated that Koppert’s Casea (Steinernema carpocapsae) form an effective biocontrol strategy against wireworms in irrigated potato fields.

When applied to the soil, these nematodes actively seek out wireworm larvae, infecting them with symbiotic bacteria that cause death within days.

Trials have shown that integrating beneficial nematodes into pest management programs can reduce tuber damage by up to 30%, leading to higher yields and increased revenue.

Highly adaptable, these nematodes tolerate both hot and cold conditions and are available in large, agriculture-ready formats with a soluble biodegradable formulation – offering a sustainable and practical solution for wireworm control.

Application techniques and timing

For maximum efficacy, nematodes are applied to irrigated potato fields through soil drenching or standard agricultural irrigation and spraying systems, ensuring thorough coverage of the root zone where wireworm larvae are most active.

Timing is critical – nematodes are most effective against young larvae, making early spring or late summer applications ideal, as these periods coincide with peak wireworm activity.

A split-dose strategy can be used to provide continuous protection throughout the risk period.

Beneficial nematodes offer a superior alternative to traditional pesticides for both organic and conventional growers.

They integrate seamlessly into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs, are compatible with most pesticides, and pose no risk to humans, animals, or plants.

Koppert’s biological solutions allow growers to effectively control wireworms while maintaining sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.

Field trials and collaboration

To validate the effectiveness of nematodes in real-world conditions, Koppert and Dr Richard Binks – Koppert’s market development and technical consultant – have collaborated with agronomy experts and grower groups, including James Klug of Deben Agronomy, an independent potato specialist overseeing crops across East Anglia.

Approximately 95% of the potato fields James advises are located in East Suffolk, designated for the pre-pack market, where tolerance for wireworm damage is extremely low.

Since the withdrawal of Mocap, wireworms have become his number one concern.

With conventional nematicides proving ineffective, James and his colleagues explored alternative solutions and identified Koppert’s nematodes through the Vegetable Consultants Association (VCA).

In 2024, fully replicated trials were conducted on a Suffolk sandy loam site, where wireworm populations had been confirmed through bait trapping.

This approach aimed to maximise impact, as wireworms at different life stages remain active throughout the season.

Applying nematodes in higher water volumes and ensuring soil moisture were also critical factors, with applications timed just before rainfall or irrigation.

Promising results and future considerations

Although wireworm pressure was slightly lower than expected based on trapping data, untreated plots still showed 5% tuber damage – a level high enough to cause economic losses in a commercial crop.

“We found that three treatments of Casea at 2Bn/ha reduced that 5% to 0%, and this was a statistically significant result, representing a considerable return on investment if it were in a commercial situation,” James notes.

While he acknowledges this is just one year’s experience, he is already considering nematode
use on a commercial scale due to the lack of alternative options.

“The results exceeded my expectations and are very promising.

“We now have data to support this approach, and although further research is needed, I would consider using nematodes in fields with high wireworm pressure,” he adds.

Visit Koppert’s website for more information.

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A well-designed cooling system is vital for minimising storage losses and maintaining produce quality. However, the challenge lies in doing so sustainably and energy-efficiently.

Additionally, the extreme weather patterns and harvest variations we’ve seen in recent years significantly impact the storage process. So, how can you ensure your cooling system is built to withstand these challenges?

Three questions to determine the right cooling capacity

To determine the appropriate capacity and setup for a cooling system, it’s essential to answer these three questions:

1. What cooling capacity do your potatoes require?

Consider when and for how long you intend to store your potatoes, how quickly the temperature needs to decrease and the conditions under which you want to store the produce for a specific period.

This requires performing a cooling load calculation.

Depending on the variety of potato, the cooling capacity ranges from between 60–140 watts per tonne of stored produce.

2. Do your storage cells need to be cooled simultaneously, and when?

Create a cooling schedule to determine which rooms will be cooled simultaneously.

For example, if you have three rooms with a total cooling capacity of 100kW, but plan to use only two rooms at full capacity simultaneously, the simultaneity factor would be 2/3, or 67%.

In this case, your cooling system would only need to provide 200kW of cooling.

3. At what temperatures will the cooling take place?

Establish the maximum outdoor temperature and the minimum room temperature.

With this information, you can determine the condensation temperature and the evaporation temperature of your system.

The condensation temperature is typically 10°C higher than the maximum outdoor temperature, and the evaporation temperature is typically 7°C lower than the minimum room temperature. These values are crucial for determining your system’s effective cooling capacity.

Choose a cooling system that meets your needs

Two types of cooling systems are commonly used for storing potatoes. A direct cooling system (often referred to as DX or Direct Expansion) and an indirect cooling system.

In a direct system, a refrigerant evaporates in the cooling coils of the system, cooling the air in the storage rooms.

The compressor compresses the gas, raising its temperature, and this hot gas then condenses in the condenser, releasing heat to the outside air.

An indirect system can also be used, where the cold air is not directly released into the storage rooms, but instead it circulates through an intermediary system that uses a mixture of water and glycol.

A direct cooling system is typically more cost-effective in terms of initial investment and generally consumes less energy compared to an indirect system.

On the other hand, an indirect cooling system allows for more precise control of the temperature in the coolers in each storage room individually.

This helps tailor the cooling process more precisely to your potatoes and minimises the risk of dehydration.

Use of efficient natural refrigerants

Cooling with natural refrigerants is not only more environmentally friendly than synthetic alternatives but can also help reduce energy consumption.

Depending on your situation, natural refrigerants can reduce energy consumption by around 15–30%.

The most used natural refrigerants are propane, CO₂ and ammonia.

Generally, propane is ideal for smaller cooling capacities up to around 75kW, CO₂ for capacities up to around 300kW and ammonia is best for larger capacities.

The efficiency of natural refrigerants depends on factors such as variety, outdoor temperature, the storage room temperature and whether a direct or indirect cooling system is used.

Consulting with an expert is recommended for guidance.

Continuous monitoring of storage conditions

Use a storage management system that monitors real-time conditions of your produce 24/7.

This system automatically adjusts the cooling system, hatches and air circulation to maintain the desired conditions in your storage.

By properly setting up automation, you can reduce manual workload and ensure your potatoes stay at the perfect temperature.

Now’s the perfect time to review your storage

Learn what you can improve in your storage and make sure changes are implemented before your next harvest.

Contact Omnivent’s UK representative Ronnie Laing for a no-obligation storage consult.

Visit omnivent.com/consult or call 0794 006 7458.

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“Farmers have always farmed the way the government wants them for farm,” comments Ed Hammond who farms 800ha near Southwell, growing cereals, potatoes, sugar beet and maize for AD on a mix of soils including Trent gravel, salt clay, sand loam and sandy silt loam.

“The consequence is that the drive has been for more intensive, higher yielding systems which have damaged soils.

“The focus now needs to be much more about improving soils which are a finite resource. We need to achieve the same return from lower levels of chemical inputs and regenerate soil.”

As a result, since 2017 Ed has been working on evolving his system with the goal of achieving the same margin from growing less.

His system is now based on min till for all crops except potatoes, although a small amount of land is also ploughed for maize as it is a lazy rooter and needs looser soil.

He shares a 5m cross slot drill with a near neighbour to ensure effective crop establishment. Extensive use is made of cover crops.

Soil biology

Ed is also playing close attention to soil biology. “We need to rebuild the soil biota and carbon as these are fundamental to soil health.

“Soil is much more than just a growing medium. It can contribute significantly to the crop. If we have healthier soil we can increase efficiency of nitrogen use and reduce usage of artificial fertilisers.”

Since 2020 Ed has been using a range of liquid carbon nutrition products based on sustainable molasses and plant-based nutrients are an effective tool for effective soil regeneration.

The ED&F Man Agronomy range contains four liquid carbon products formulated for specific situations and requirements, allowing a tailored programme to be developed to optimise crop establishment.

All products are high in carbon and sugars from sustainable sources complemented with a range of other ingredients. 

“Sustainable cane molasses is a natural source of both carbon and energy,” explains Alistair Hugill from ED&F Man Agronomy.

“The high carbohydrate content stimulates microbial populations in the organic layer and drives microbial activity through to the topsoil, stimulating greater nutrient uptake even down to the sub-soil layer.

“In a planned approach to improving soil health and crop sustainability, the starting point is to boost soil microbial activity. 

Soil microbes capture nutrients for the plant so the more effective the microbial populations, the better the nutrient supply to the plant.” 

Increasing nutrient supply

All plants provide carbohydrates to the soil in the form of root exudates, effectively a sugar solution for the microbes.

The carbohydrates feed the microbes and increase the rate at which mineral nutrients in the soil are dissolved, increasing their availability to the plant.

“Plants produce carbohydrates via photosynthesis and any surplus is used for root exudates.  When performing well a plant will provide 40% of assimilates from photosynthesis into the soil via root exudates, containing carbon and sugars.

If we feed the plant with a source of sugar and carbon, it can meet its demand for carbohydrates for growth more efficiently and allowing the production of root exudates to increase, in turn increasing nutrient supply to the plant.”

Reducing nitrogen use

All nitrogen is applied as liquid, so the liquid carbon is simply added to the mix, whether applied as a soil
or foliar feed.

“We have found it helps to work as a wetting agent and reduce scorch, while the amino acids are rapidly utilised by the plant. Since using the supplement, we have been able to reduce nitrogen use.

“On spring barley we have cut back from 120kg/ha to 80kg/ha with no change in yields. Usage of potatoes has been reduced from 270kg/ha to 180kg/ha.

“The improved soil structure has helped crops deal with drought, generally being able to withstand dry conditions for longer.

“We have also seen an increase in the number of possible drilling days which is a real plus as we are sharing the drill and having to get a bigger overall hectarage into the ground.

“The drill uses pressure to get into the ground and our drill operator has commented that less pressure is needed as the soils work easier, increasing the speed of operations, increasing the number of drilling days and reducing establishment costs.

“We are taking a holistic approach to soils combining minimal disturbance, cover crops and liquid carbon supplements and it is having a big impact.

“If we can build soil organic matter and promote more efficient nutrient uptake by plants we can improve soil health for more sustainable production,” Ed suggests.

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With nearly 50 years of experience and a team of FACTS-qualified advisors and BASIS-qualified agronomists, OMEX is ideally positioned to guide growers in both profitable and sustainable potato cultivation.

Comprehensive crop nutrition and technical support

OMEX offers a suite of services designed to optimise potato crop health and yield. This includes soil sampling and SAP analysis to give growers a deeper understanding of their soil’s nutritional composition.

Soil sampling before planting helps assess nutrient levels, while SMN Plus offers insight into the nitrogen available throughout the growing cycle, ensuring optimal nutrient uptake at all stages.

Nutrient use efficiency is crucial for sustainable farming. OMEX’s approach focuses on applying only the nutrients necessary to improve crop health, yield, and quality, ensuring long-term financial and environmental sustainability for potato farmers.

By using SAP analysis, growers receive real-time data on 20+ live nutritional parameters, complemented by agronomist recommendations to avoid over- or under-application of inputs, SAP analysis has a 72-hour turnaround time, ensuring you have your results when it matters most.

Sustainability in potato farming

Sustainable potato cultivation requires carefully considered nutrient management.

With SAP analysis, potato growers can make informed decisions on fertilisation, reducing unnecessary input costs while boosting crop performance.

OMEX’s science-led approach has been honed through years of research, helping farmers utilise available tools and nutrients to grow more sustainably.

The role of base fertiliser in potato establishment

Applying the right base fertiliser is essential for potato crop establishment and root development.

OMEX recommends applying base fertilisers before planting and incorporating them into the seed bed, based on soil tests to ensure the right nutrient balance.

The choice of fertiliser depends on the expected yield, variety, and quality requirements—such as seed numbers, skin finish, and dry matter content for processing.

Key nutrients in OMEX’s base fertiliser blends include:

Nitrogen: Promotes haulm development, tuber yield, and tuber size.

Phosphate: Aids root development and increases tuber numbers per plant.

Potassium: Enhances tuber size and overall yield.

Sulphur: Improves tuber quality, reduces skin diseases, and optimises nutrient utilisation, particularly on deficient soils.

Multiflo NPKS fertiliser for potatoes

The OMEX Multiflo range offers a fully soluble liquid NPK fertiliser specifically designed for potatoes.

Every potato-growing system is unique, so consulting with a FACTS-qualified advisor before planting is essential to ensure the correct fertiliser grade.

A popular choice among growers is the 11.5-10-4+S Multiflo grade, which provides balanced nitrogen and phosphate levels, with a reduced ratio of potassium for those planning an additional potassium application later.

Alternatively, farmers seeking a reduced nitrogen ratio can opt for the 2-6-12 grade, especially if planning to use an additional pass of Nitroflo liquid nitrogen and sulphur fertiliser.

Multiflo liquid fertilisers offer several key benefits to potato growers:

• Precision application: Delivering fertiliser exactly where and when it i’s needed.
• Sustainability: Application can be made right up to the field margins, minimising waste.
• Efficiency: A 100% soluble, high-quality phosphorus source ensures better nutrient uptake.
• Convenience: OMEX’s tank system provides farmers with dedicated on-farm storage solutions.

NP starter placement fertiliser for potatoes

Potatoes have a particularly inefficient root system, so placing key nutrients at planting can greatly improve nutrient uptake.

Using Multiflo liquid N+P fertiliser gives farmers greater accuracy and evenness of application.

The instantly available nutrients enhance early root and tuber development, helping to increase tuber numbers and yield.

A recent trial comparing Multiflo NP grade 7:20:0 with granular DAP fertiliser at the same phosphorus rates showed that the OMEX treatment achieved a target yield of over 1 million tubers per hectare, demonstrating the effectiveness of liquid fertiliser in early crop development.

Zynergy

Zynergy is a novel formulation of copper and zinc complexed using OMEX eba technology. Zynergy provides rapidly available copper and zinc through cost-effective low-dose foliar applications.

Copper and Zinc are both vital nutrients for potato crop health. Zynergy optimises nutrient uptake to improve plant health.

OMEX – partner for the future of potato farming

With decades of experience, OMEX continues to support potato growers across the UK and worldwide, helping them maximise crop yields sustainably.

Its science-based approach and expert advice ensures that farmers have access to fertiliser strategies to optimise their potato crops for enhanced quality and quantity.

View the OMEX multiflo range.

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Potential applications for the German-built Crop.Zone are almost endless, but the manufacturer, the UK importer and dealers including the Tuckwells Group, believe that its ability to rapidly kill off potato foliage and stop the crop’s growth using electric current rather than chemicals brings particular benefits for UK producers.

Performs in all weathers

The Crop.Zone consists of a linkage-mounted, PTO-driven electricity generator which supplies electrical current through 9m or 12m wide, gull-wing folding booms to applicator hoods, under which electrical contacts apply high-voltage current to the plants.

The rear-mounted electric treatment system works in conjunction with a front-mounted boom sprayer that applies highly conductive liquid (Bio Volt.Fuel) to the plant leaves, encouraging current transfer through the crop whether it is wet or dry.

For the 9m version, a tractor of 185hp upwards is needed, and the 12m model needs 215hp. Up to 10kW of electrical power is generated, with output between 1,600–5,500V – depending on plant populations and canopy density.

The contact hoods are 750mm or 1.5m wide, and the current choice includes versions for potatoes, oats and cover crops.

Immediate results

When the electrodes touch the plant foliage, an electrical circuit is created and plant cells are destroyed. Depending on the plant type and the applicator, this initiates the ripening process – potatoes stop growing and skin firmness is promoted, and cereals and weeds die and dry out.

Crop desiccation starts immediately and plants dry out within just a few hours or over the course of a few days, depending on the plant type and climatic conditions.

Fully organic

Bio Volt.Fuel is certified fully organic. Standard sprayer tank capacity is 600 litres, and 150 litres of the electrical adjuvant is carried.

An electrical mixing pump combines the adjuvant with water and the diluted mix is applied through conventional hydraulic spray nozzles at a rate of 160-litres/ha, (150 litres water plus 10 litres adjuvant), depending on crop type.

Realistic work rates

Typical application speeds are 3–8kph, depending on the crop canopy, and test users of 12m versions report work rates of 4–5ha/hr, or 20–40ha during a typical working day.

Continuing product development includes wider 24 and 48m versions, increasing the product’s attraction to the largest potato growers as well as contractors.

An in-cab terminal controls all key functions and a 5G telematics module records all aspects of operation.

“Its ability to work in almost all weathers and temperatures makes it extremely versatile,” explained Crop.Zone UK network development and support manager, Paul Harrison.

“Whereas chemical herbicide efficacy is related to ambient temperatures and sunlight availability, our electrical system works instantly in all conditions, and it’s only the rate at which the organic matter dries out that’s affected by the weather.”

Advantages beyond chemical savings

Paul said advantages offered by Crop.Zone to potato growers go way beyond saving chemical. “It allows improved management of the period from desiccation until harvesting,” he stressed.

“It makes it easier to set and control the desired harvesting date; there is improved uniformity for a more saleable crop; starch content is unaffected and those who are using it also report improved haulm detachment and exceptional storage quality.

“With just one pass needed rather than three using chemical, there are major time and labour savings and less dependence on weather providing suitable dry windows.”

Trials and extensive testing have shown that soil organisms and earthworms are unaffected by the electric desiccation technique or the organic spray pre-treatment and, with no chemical residues, soil health and fertility levels are maintained.

Dealer view

Tuckwells Group Grimme and potato product specialist, Ashley Sismey said that potential customers for the Crop.Zone were impressed by its quick action during on-farm trials late last year.

“In very late, green-top potatoes the effect on the crop was immediate, with wilting evident within an hour of the electrical current being applied. We have had several enquiries specifically for desiccating cover crops too.

“In organic cropping regimes the cost of the machine is easily justified and even where growers currently rely on glyphosate, that’s becoming more expensive and the Crop.Zone could pay for itself within just a few seasons.”

Tuckwells has a demonstration Crop.Zone available for this potato harvesting season and also has a first limited allocation of machines available for sale.

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Due to step down from his role later this month, Mr Clark joined Branston in 1989 as a trader with a background in farming, having worked on his family farm for a number of years.  

He progressed quickly through the business and expanded his skill set to encompass planning and budgeting in addition to managing grower relationships before eventually becoming commercial director.  

Mr Clark said: “Every day at Branston is different, and I have had a wonderful time over the last three decades learning everything I can about potato supply and contributing to the growth of the business.  

“Branston was very different when I joined back in 1989, and the market is continuing to evolve, but understanding the whole industry has been key to my career longevity, and I’m privileged to have had many opportunities to learn and grow at Branston.  

“Another career highlight has been building our fantastic teams. I have worked with many talented people throughout my career, both internally and externally, and building these strong relationships has been extremely rewarding.” 

Mr Clark added that after “three decades of potatoes”, he is now looking forward to spending some time travelling with his family. 

Dedication and hard work

Jim Windle, Branston CEO, said that Mr Clark’s dedication and hard work over the years have been invaluable. 

“We’re immensely grateful for everything he has done to help us grow Branston as a business. It’s been a pleasure to work with Richard and experience his passion for the industry, and we all wish him, and his family, well for the future.  

“The longevity of Richard’s career is testament also to the breadth of opportunities and depth of real relationships this sector has to offer.  

“It is possible to have an incredibly versatile career in produce and added value food categories, not least because in these sectors it is critical that you are able to look up and downstream in equal measure and be as close with your supply base as you are with your customers. Very few industries offer or demand this.  

“People often aren’t aware of the progression or breadth of roles available in what is a very challenging but enjoyable sector to work. At Branston, we’re committed to investing in people and supporting our team in long-term careers like Richard’s.  

“His expertise will be missed, but we’re equally looking forward to welcoming and growing the next generation of talent, which is well underway.” 

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