With an average reduction of 1,1%, the percentage of seed potatoes that has reduced the NAK is comparable to other years. This is apparent from the field inspection by the NAK, which has so far inspected more than 60% of the seed potato plots for the first time.
So far, almost 412 hectares have been reduced, which is 1% of the total seed potato area. Compared to 2016 and 2015, that figure seems to be higher, but given the increase in the area, it is not too bad. "Not an extreme outcome," says Ad Fioole, regional head of NAK's field service. "That won't make much difference in the end."
South most reductions
The south region has the most reductions of the 4 areas, at 2%. Fioole has a theoretical reason for this. "In the south we started the field inspection earlier and have therefore progressed further in the inspection." He finds the causes of the reductions striking.
The reductions mainly occurred on bacterial disease (59%). Mosaic was found to be minimal. The other causes make up 41%. The main reason for reduction is breed purity. "Storage problems and mixing are noticeably higher this year. We had a mild winter and many plots are growing 1 in 3. Storage plants have not frozen away and that will now play a role."
Effect of drought and heat
The effect Due to the dry and hot weather, bacteria often dry up. "The symptom expression is not expressed, but will it rain? Then you will see bacterial disease rear its head again."
The rain on Thursday, June 22, was of little significance; Will the blow come from the showers that may fall next week? “Rain can give growth a chance. In addition, the crops that are in full bloom are still under stress; Bacterial disease is then a realistic option.”
Fioole also points out the amount of lice. "The pressure is considerable and they are quite active. That is not without risk. The storage that is available is not always healthy and is therefore a potential source of contamination. Selection is therefore necessary."