New phytophthora approach lowers costs

A crop protection strategy, in which resistant varieties are grown in combination with extra preventive measures, can reduce the production costs of potatoes. It must also be possible to achieve a comparable yield level. That is the outcome of a study by Wageningen University and the Irish research organization Teagasc.

The so-called IPM2.0 approach has 3 extras on top of the current phytophthora approach. Resistant varieties are used, genetic adaptations in the phytophthora are monitored locally and a 'do not spray unless' principle is used.

This means that a grower may only spray if monitoring shows that the resistant variety is at risk of being affected by genetic modifications. By spraying in such an emergency, the crop is sufficiently protected. In addition, it becomes difficult for Phytophthora to adapt genetically in such a way that it breaks through the resistance gene. This is important in order not to lose the resistance again quickly.

Comparison
In the study, a comparison made between the susceptible variety Désirée, a resistant variety of Désirée, and the resistant variety Sarpo Mira. For the susceptible variety Desirée, the IPM2.0 approach resulted in an average 15% reduction in the use of crop protection agents. With the 2 resistant types, the crop could be kept healthy with 80% to 90% less crop protection products.

Because less crop protection products can be used, cost savings could be achieved.

Anne-Jan Doorn

Anne Jan Doorn is an arable expert at Boerenbusiness. He writes about the various arable farming markets and also focuses on the land and energy market.

aj.doorn@boerenbusiness. Nl

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