There should be no interruption to the seed supply this year, according to Potato Council, despite the problematic conditions experienced by growers.

Potato Council Head of Seed and Export Rob Burns says: “This season has been a particularly challenging one but early indications are that there should be sufficient GB- grown seed to satisfy our export and domestic requirements.”

Seed growers wanting to find out how best to overcome the hurdles presented by this difficult season are urged to attend the Seed Industry Event at Crieff Hydro, near Perth, on November 20.

This year’s event focuses on the importance of good seed storage and handling to maximise quality, and how sourcing Safe Haven seed is a way to protect potatoes against plant health risks.

Mr Burns has been heading up the Potato Council’s work on the Safe Haven Certification Scheme. This is designed to reduce the risk of outbreaks of bacterial diseases of potatoes through a series of standards covering all the potential infection points.

“In a year like this one, where waterlogged fields may lead to high levels of rots and other diseases, it is vital that seed is looked after properly,” warns Mr Burns.

“The harvest is only the start of quality seed and there is a lot that can be done to maximise its quality prior to storage.”

He says that rapid drying and refrigeration can reduce the levels of bacteria responsible for rots. Best practice handling can ensure that the quality of the seed is preserved through to the planting season.

“Using GB-sourced seed is the only way to ensure that our national crop remains free of the potentially devastating diseases Brown Rot and Ring Rot which are endemic to parts of mainland Europe.

“Safe Haven-assured seed is produced exclusively from GB stock and growers should ask for it wherever possible,” adds Mr Burns.

Hosted by Potato Council, the biennial Seed Industry Event comprises a conference, workshops and an awards dinner. Attendance at this event will provide an opportunity to hear first-hand expert insights on key challenges facing the industry.

“We will be delivering information on trends, opportunities and competitive threats and all the latest news, views and advice from research to marketing,” says Mr Burns.

This is the only event dedicated to the seed potato industry and is a unique opportunity to catch up with suppliers, customers and colleagues as well as making valuable new contacts.

For more information on the event, and exhibitor and visitor booking information, visit: www.confevents.net