R&D Solutions for Sustainable Potato Production

In this episode, we’re joined by Nick Windmill, Technical and R&D Manager for Potatoes at Agrii, and Matt Audley, Technical Manager for Plant Healthcare.

We discuss new solutions for potatoes delivered through R&D and how they can benefit growers for sustainable production.

We will also be talking about a new Agrii initiative 'The Potato Partnership'.

What Is the Focus of R&D in Potato Farming?

Tony: Nick, when we talk about R&D for potatoes, what is the mission you're focused on?

Nick: Our key goal is to look for sustainable solutions, engage with growers, and promote new strategies so they can continue to produce potatoes safely and effectively for their business.

Key Challenges in Potato Production

Tony: What are the main challenges growers in the potato industry face today?

Nick: A major issue is the loss of crop protection materials. In addition, we face challenges from late blight, potato cyst nematode, and wireworm. These are significantly impacting growers, so we need to provide solutions that help them remain in potato production.

R&D in Action: Plant Healthcare’s Approach

Tony: Matt, could you explain how R&D is structured at Plant Healthcare?

Matt: Our work begins in Seattle, where we focus on discovering natural solutions like our harpin protein, which stimulates plant stress resistance. From there, we conduct years of trials, both internally and through third-party contractors, to ensure the technology works consistently in real-world conditions.

How Long Does R&D Take?

Tony: How long does the R&D process take?

Matt: It can take more than ten years from the discovery of new technology in a lab to getting it into the hands of farmers.

How Agrii Evaluates New Technologies

Tony: Nick, once Plant Healthcare presents its R&D data, how do you evaluate it for your growers?

Nick: We carefully review the data and decide on trials to be conducted in the UK, sometimes in collaboration with third parties like Eurofins. For example, if the material targets late blight, we can conduct controlled trials to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the product.

What Are Bio-stimulants?

Tony: Matt, what exactly is a bio-stimulant?

Matt: Bio-stimulants aren’t fertilizers or pesticides, but they improve plant health by enhancing nutrient uptake, relieving plant stress, or improving crop yield and quality. Examples include seaweed extracts and amino acids. ProAct, our current bio-stimulant, uses harpin proteins to prime plants to better resist stress.

Impact of Bio-stimulants on Potato Crops

Tony: Nick, how do bio-stimulants benefit potato crops?

Nick: We've tested harpin proteins in potatoes and seen benefits in improving the plant’s defenses against bacterial diseases like blackleg. Over the years, we’ve continued trials, and while results can vary, there is a consistent improvement in plant resilience.

Developing Bio-stimulants for Potato Growers

Tony: How far along are you in bringing these bio-stimulants to farmers?

Nick: We’re already providing harpin proteins to growers and working on expanding the product’s potential to control issues like potato cyst nematodes and late blight.

Collaboration in the Potato Partnership

Tony: Nick, you’re about to launch a new initiative called the Potato Partnership. Can you tell us more about it?

Nick: The Potato Partnership builds on previous work by AHDB, bringing together industry partners like James Foskett Farms and East Suffolk Produce to address agronomic challenges such as wireworm control, aphid and virus management, and nematode resistance.

Matt’s Perspective on Collaborating with Agrii

Tony: Matt, how do you ensure the products you develop align with the real-world needs of growers?

Matt: Working with Agrii is invaluable. They bring a wealth of practical expertise, helping us refine the products to ensure they’re as effective as possible for farmers.

Final Thoughts: The Importance of Collaboration and Innovation

Tony: Nick, what’s your top tip for listeners today?

Nick: Collaboration across the supply chain is key to developing new solutions that address the challenges growers face today and in the future.

Matt: I’d recommend considering bio-stimulants and biological tools to fill some of the gaps left by the loss of traditional crop protection materials. There’s a lot of data out there to help you choose the right product for your needs.