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Precision Farming - Potato Cyst Nematode – GPS Mapping

                

Why sample for PCN?

Potato crop yields 50 ton / ha - with a crop value at £130 per ton this equates to £6,500 per ha

PCN has the potential to halve crop yield - £3,250. Nematicide costs up to £350 per ha

Conclusions: Be alerted to and target treat high risk areas

PCN Sampling

Agri-tech's unique PCN Service ensures the most robust sampling techniques are used with an automated sampler guarenteeing consistency to the sampling depth.

Benefits:

Whole field covered - much higher accuracy then traditional W pattern sampling

Flexibile sampling regime depending on perceived PCN problem

Automated sampler giving consistency to sampling reagime and depth of sampling

Treacking device indicates route of bike and sample points

Large soil sample taken - can be used for nutrient analysis if required

Minimum of 49 cores taken per ha / sample

Can be tailored to fit your budget                                                                                                                                              

 


Analysis:

• Anglian Soil Analysis or chosen lab for analysis
• Soil diluted on water - PCN eggs float to surface
• Dilution sieved and nematodes placed under microscope
• Count done manually - if cysts found process is repeated to determine egg count

Interpretation:

• Should be used as a guide
• If eggs are found further sub-sampling may be required to get a more accurate picture of the problem
• Seek recommendations from potato agronomist for appropriate nematicide and course of action