Potato growers are being reminded to risk assess their crops ahead of harvest this season and, where appropriate, carry out pre-harvest residue testing of tubers where granular nematicides have been applied at planting.
The guidance, supported by the Nematicide Stewardship Programme (NSP), aims to help growers follow established best practice and safeguard both crop assurance compliance and the long-term future of granular nematicide use.
Independent agronomist Simon Alexander says: “Growers should take a representative sample from the treated area, selecting tubers from multiple plants across the field in a ‘W’ shaped pattern.
“This sample should contain at least 2.5kg of tubers, which should then be submitted for testing.”
Testing should be carried out by an independent residue testing facility, which is ISO 17025 accredited, as required by the Red Tractor Fresh Produce scheme and other assurance schemes. For details of independent residue testing facilities available across the UK, growers can contact their agronomist or nematicide supplier.
Growers should always observe the statutory label requirements for any granular nematicide product applied, including the minimum interval from planting to haulm burndown or harvest. These requirements apply in all circumstances and must be followed regardless of residue test results.
Patrick Mitton, chair of the NSP, endorses this proactive approach. “The NSP has a long history in promoting best practice use and handling of granular nematicides. The advice being offered helps to guide the end of season actions of growers in their collective support for the continued use into the future of granular nematicides.”
