Potato grower opens his farm gates to share best soil practice

Over the last decade Slingsby potato grower Andrew Wilson has been expanding his potato operation, but the desire to try the science in Potato Council-funded trials to increase productivity at his own farm is to be opened up to other growers, Thursday 1 August.

Potato farmers in the last few years have experienced variable planting seasons, each with different challenges. “My soil is my main asset and getting the optimum primary, secondary and bed preparation cultivations plays a key factor to my yield, tuber quality and the stability of the structure, therefore increasing my knowledge is high on my agenda” explains Andrew.

“As our potato operation has evolved, I’ve yearned to try the latest science on my own farm and I’m pleased that we have had the opportunity this year to be involved in extensive Potato Council-funded cultivation and nematicide best practice trials.”

“However, seeing the outcomes working in real life is all very well, but I’m pleased that Potato Council has arranged an open event, so other growers can see the study first hand and can discuss the results with experts so they can takeaway and share best practice.”

Potato Council’s technical executive, Phil Bradshaw, who is organising the demonstration afternoon says, ”SAC consulting experts Matt Smallwood and John Sarup will take interactive sessions where analysis of practice, cost and field observations, including emergence; soil resistance and compaction; and canopy development will be shared with the group as they walk the trials.”

“John will focus on the synergies of applying nematicide, with in furrow fungicide application and nematicide incorporation best practice. While Matt will discuss a range of cultivation options available to growers, and demonstrate the findings from standard commercially available machinery, which will be there on the day.”