Arable Reminder to follow nematicide best practice this spring

Potato growers are reminded to follow best practice this spring when applying granular nematicides – to ensure the products are used safely and protected for the future.

“Granular nematicides remain a vital tool for use as part of an integrated strategy to control nematodes,” says potato agronomist Simon Alexander, who is a working group member of the Nematicide Stewardship Programme (NSP).

“The NSP best practice brings together practical advice and forms part of the Red Tractor standard for growers,” adds Mr Alexander, who has outlined six key areas of the protocol that growers should keep in mind.

Qualify

All operators must have a PA4 or PA4G certification and must have completed the ARTIS Nematicide Stewardship e-learning course to apply granular nematicides. They must also be members of NRoSO

Calibrate

Applicators must be checked daily for damage or wear, to ensure all pipework is correctly fitted. The applicator must be inspected and certified as fit for use by a qualified National Sprayer Testing Scheme engineer at least every two years.

Single pass

The product should be incorporated within a single pass, immediately prior to planting with no granules left on the surface of the soil.

Shut off

All applicators must be fitted with a device in the cab that allows operators to shut off granule flow at least 3m from the end of each row. The allows for all piping to run out before the machine is lifted out of the ground.

Spillages

Use the same filling point in the field to allow any spillages to be identified quickly. Bury small spillages immediately to ensure no granules are left on the surface. If the spillage is large, remove it to an empty nematicide container, clearly label it and return it to the manufacturer, burying any remnants immediately..

For more on potatoes, see our Root Crop Special beginning on page 19.

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