Wet rot in potato storages poses threat to potato crop in the UK

After one of the most difficult harvest periods in recent memory in the UK, potato farmers are being advised to be on the lookout for any storage problems from wet stock.

Following a delayed, damp and extended harvest season, problems are continuing to arise in storage with wet potatoes threatening to contaminate whole batches.

The Potato Council's Sutton Bridge Experimental Unit in Lincolnshire reports instances of small pockets of rot developing into bigger problems. Blight and watery wound rot have been evident as primary causes, but cases of bacterial soft rot have been widespread.

Adrian Cunnington, operations manager at Sutton Bridge Experimental Unit said: "If there was ever a Christmas to sit back and relax, with the potato crop safely gathered in, 2008 will probably not be it.

"Black dot levels are high, affecting skin finish in pre-pack crops, especially those harvested later in the season. Fry colour is also a cause of worry in processing material, with high levels of variability making it difficult to appraise crops' suitability for market."

Store managers are urged to stay on their guard for any change in crop status within the store, such as localised hotspots or appearance of condensation. "Inspections should be made at least twice a week, with a minimum of monthly assessment of critical market criteria, such as skin finish or fry colour.