Potato growers in Scotland have received welcome additional training in soil application techniques for controlling soil pests, tackling soil-borne diseases and the new opportunity for seed growers to use in-furrow Actara application at the time of planting to control early aphid migration and reduce the risk of virus transmission.
Around 40 growers and operators attended two Syngenta training workshops last week (23 - 24 February) - in Balbeggie, Perthshire and Arbroath, Angus. Presentations included the set up and calibration of Nemathorin nematicide applicators, positioning of nozzles on Amistar applicators and how to incorporate Actara into aphid control programmes.
Edinburgh-based Syngenta Area Manager, Iain Anderson, said: "With the recent introduction of the in-furrow Actara recommendation seed growers have the real chance to control aphids during the first weeks of emergence. It’s a time when plants are most susceptible to virus transmission, but conventional foliar applications are difficult when crops are so small.
"Actara will provide good control of aphids for several weeks from emergence, and give an associated reduction in virus levels. It gives protection until the point where foliar insecticides can provide the necessary aphid control."
Mr Anderson told growers that applications should target soil through the root area, to optimise uptake as the plant grows. The recommended option is to fit a conventional Amistar applicator on the seed planter, where the twin Syngenta nozzle configuration firstly sprays the soil as the furrow is opened, and the rear nozzle directs spray onto the soil as it closes back in, to give an even mix. "The aim is to treat the soil around the seed tuber, and not directly onto the tuber itself," he reported. "This will create a zone of protection of treated soil, into which the roots grow and take up the highly systemic Actara."
He highlighted that the granule formulation of Actara means that it will need to be added to the water tank. "The best practice is to fill the spray tank with a minimum of 15 cm of water in the bottom and agitate vigorously. Pour the Actara through the sprayer lid, and then add the remainder of the water. Agitate the mixture thoroughly before use and continue until spraying is complete," advised Mr Anderson. "Operators will have to pay attention to draining the tank and clean water flushing at the end of use."
Potato growers can get further on-line information on potato application techniques, including registering for BASIS and NRoSO points, with a dedicated Potato Review Knowledge Centre at www.potatocrop.com A further training workshop is to be held at Aberlady, East Lothian on 14 March; for further information email: cropmarketing.uk@syngenta.com
Syngenta extended thanks to Graham McEwan of West Mains of Colliston, Arbroath and John Miller of Rosefield, Balbeggie for hosting the workshops.
