British farmers are set to gain from the new TARBIS foliar treatment, which enhances nutrient efficiency and crop yields while reducing dependency on synthetic fertilisers. Industry-tested and approved for organic systems, TARBIS, developed by Unium Bioscience, helps plants fix and uptake various nutrients and withstand stresses like drought. Effective in any climate, it could significantly cut fertiliser costs and benefit the environment.
News By Region
Moderate seed potato crop in Western Europe results in historic high prices, lower acreage expected in 2024
Seed potato acreage in the Netherlands, Germany, and France is declining, hitting less than 40,000 hectares in the Netherlands, a trend continuing for the third year. Wouter Mutsaers of Q-potato Holland highlights difficulties in managing increased disease pressure and reduced quality and quantity of seed potatoes due to poor conditions. Despite high prices, acreage is not expanding as usual, raising concerns over the supply for ware potato cultivation next season.
‘Tiny titans of the farm’: Nanotechnology poised to revolutionize agriculture, but cautious steps needed
Scientists from the School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala anticipate nanotechnology will significantly advance agriculture, as detailed in their review published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Research. Nanotech approaches, like nano-fertilizers, biosensors, and enhanced seeds, aim to improve yields, reduce environmental impact, and combat food insecurity due to climate change and population growth. However, challenges such as potential nanoparticle toxicity, ethical issues related to accessibility, and ecological effects must be addressed responsibly.
Tracing potato blight’s origins: A text analytics journey from America to Ireland
Researchers at North Carolina State University analyzed historical and modern writings to understand the spread and impact of Phytophthora infestans, the pathogen behind the Irish potato famine and current issues in potatoes and tomatoes. By digitizing documents from 1843 to 1845, they traced the pathogen’s travel in the U.S. before hitting Ireland. Utilizing text analytics, including keywords and social media, they mapped disease outbreaks and observed present-day conversations, mainly among scientists.
The dawn of nano-agriculture: How nanotechnology is shaping sustainable farming
A study in Agronomy journal details how nanotechnology, dubbed ‘nanofarming’, can transform agriculture, addressing issues like soil degradation and crop protection. The review discusses nanofertilizers, nanopesticides, and nano-enhanced soil, emphasizing the need to balance the benefits with potential risks like nanopollution. It aligns nanofarming with sustainability goals and advocates for further research to optimize its use, highlighting its role in achieving food security amidst environmental challenges.
Zebra chip disease watch: Univ of Idaho reports more disease bacteria in psyllids despite low pest count
In 2023, the University of Idaho’s pest monitoring program noted a slight increase in potato psyllids carrying the bacterium causing zebra chip disease in Idaho potatoes compared with normal years, though there were fewer psyllids overall. The highest concentration was in the Treasure Valley region. A centralized website, idahopestmonitoring.org, now provides regional pest data.
How Canada’s Prince Edward Island potato farmers combat soil erosion and disease threats
In Prince Edward Island, known for some as the “potato capital of the world”, farmers grapple with soil erosion due to harsh climate conditions, risking agricultural productivity. Techniques like minimal tilling and cover cropping are being adopted. Similarly, the EU faces a €1.25 billion productivity loss from erosion, prompting policy for land management to qualify for aid. Globally, sustainable agriculture is key to combatting climate-related degradation for food security.
From the highlands to high cuisine: Ecuador’s journey with native potatoes
Ecuador is experiencing an agricultural rebirth in the highlands, focusing on native potatoes. With 250,000 tons produced in 2021, small farmers are key. Partnerships between INIAP, CIP, INALPROCES, and AGROPAPA have innovated the market with colored potato chips under the Kiwa brand, leading to 80% export-driven sales increases and economic stability for farmers. This initiative supports local biodiversity and spotlights the need for continued public-private collaboration for industry growth.
Potato Association of America’s 2024 Annual Meeting: A blend of science, scenery, and sustainability
The Potato Association of America (PAA) announces its annual meeting from July 21-25, 2024, in Portland, Oregon. The event will focus on advancements in potato breeding and sustainable practices, offering discussions on pest and nutrient management, among many other topics. Participants will also enjoy the cultural and natural attractions of Portland. Further details on participation are available online.
Challenging times for European potato growers: NEPG reports significant losses and uncertain future
The North-Western European Potato Growers (NEPG) reports substantial losses for potato growers in 2023 due to poor weather and high costs, with 11,000 hectares and 650,000 tonnes affected. Despite this, global harvest rose by 5.1%, with varying regional impacts. Growers struggle with production costs, risks, and certified seed shortages, while processing demand remains high. This leaves the sector under stress, seeking a balance between supply and challenging conditions.
Navigating new horizons: The Canadian potato industry’s outlook for 2024
At the Canadian Potato Summit, UPGC’s Victoria Stamper presented an insightful analysis of the potato industry for 2023-24, highlighting a record high potato stock and shifting production trends, with a 7.2% storage increase. Canada’s potato production reached a new peak with over $1.5 billion in sales value. She discussed challenges like surplus storage, quality management, cost pressures, and shifts in consumer preferences. Opportunities for Canadian exporters in the global market, especially in Europe, were emphasized.
Record-high potato prices in Ukraine: Causes, impacts, and industry outlook
Ukraine’s potato industry is experiencing a severe price surge, with costs up to four times compared to last year’s. A shortage of quality potatoes due to lower yields is driving this spike as the season ends. Consequently, imports, especially from Poland, are increasing to meet demand, affecting Polish market prices as well. This creates critical challenges and opportunities within the industry, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and global collaboration.
Resilient Irish potato market navigates harsh weather, shortfall reported in European potato supplies
The Irish Farmers Association reports a rise in potato sales due to their economic value in the cost-of-living crisis. Despite tough harvesting, consumption has increased, with the UK and Northern Europe facing supply challenges. Potential losses in Europe could lead to 800,000 tonnes of potatoes being lost, prompting interest in imports to cover deficits in spring. This situation offers both obstacles and prospects for the potato industry.
From farm to food bank: Syngenta Canada’s pioneering effort through its Zero Hunger Challenge
Syngenta Canada’s Zero Hunger Challenge has surpassed its meal donation target by 20%, contributing over 225,000 meals to combat rural hunger and food insecurity, which has risen 78% since 2019. With $1 million already donated to Food Banks Canada, the initiative is committed to increasing 2024’s target to 250,000 meals. Syngenta engages in food drives and promotes agricultural innovation to support this cause.