In Scotland, the Seed Potato Classification Scheme (SPCS) overseen by Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (Sasa) has revealed a concerning trend in the health of seed potato crops. Recent data indicates a marked increase in the number of crops downgraded or failed due to the presence of potato virus Y (PVY) and/or potato leaf roll virus (PLRV).
Specifically, the 2022 season saw 6% of the crop area entered into the SPCS downgraded, with 0.3% failing. This situation deteriorated in 2023, where 15.4% were downgraded and 1.8% failed. Kyran Maloney, a potato specialist with SAC Consulting, highlights the majority of downgrades were attributed to PLRV, marking a significant shift in virus concerns within the sector.
Despite these figures, the high health status of Scottish potato seed is emphasized, alongside the effectiveness of the SPCS in identifying and managing virus issues. The scheme's stringent tolerances are designed to maintain crop health, though there is discussion around further tightening these tolerances and providing better support to address weak practices. Additionally, the changing climate poses challenges in managing virus transmission, with milder winters and hotter summers enhancing conditions for aphid vectors, thereby increasing virus pressure on crops. This environmental factor, combined with the observed increase in aphid activity, underscores the urgency for an integrated pest management strategy to mitigate virus risks.
Source: fwi.co.uk