Potatoes in Practice 2026

Potatoes in Practice (PiP), taking place on Thursday, 13 August 2026 at Balruddery Farm, James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee, Scotland, is Scotland’s largest field-based potato event.

Hosted by the James Hutton Institute in partnership with SRUC (Scotland’s Rural College) and Agrii, the event operates under the National Potato Innovation Centre, bringing together academic, industry, and government stakeholders to drive research, innovation, and sustainability in the potato sector. 

PiP 2026 provides a platform for learning, innovation, and knowledge exchange, helping potato growers, agronomists, breeders, and researchers adopt practical, sustainable, and resilient farming practices.

Organisers & Partners

• Organising Partners: James Hutton Institute, SRUC, Agrii
• Event Committee: Directors and technical experts from Hutton, SRUC, and Agrii oversee the programme, field trials, and demonstrations
• Supporting Organisations: GB Potatoes, Seed Potato Organisation, Scottish Society for Crop Research, PotatoPro, and other industry stakeholders

Key Features & Activities

Seminar Programme

• Modern Breeding Methods Focus on genomics, molecular markers, and gene editing to develop high-yield, disease-resistant potato varieties.
• Sustainability Use of advanced technologies such as remote sensing and nutrient monitoring to optimize crop management, reduce inputs, and improve environmental sustainability.
• Free-Living Nematodes Management strategies for nematode challenges and their impact on crop health.
• Pest & Disease Update Integrated pest management techniques, controlling viruses and pathogens, and adapting to changes in chemical use.

Each session is chaired by experts from the Hutton Institute, SRUC, Agrii, and other industry partners.

Field & Machinery Demonstrations

• Live Machinery Demonstrations: Showcasing the latest potato farming equipment in action multiple times throughout the day.
• Drone Demonstrations: Precision spraying and spreading technologies for sustainable farming.
• Variety Demonstration Plots: Inspect new and existing potato varieties in real field conditions.
• Exhibitor Stalls: Displays of seed, machinery, crop protection products, and agronomy services.

Strategic Importance

• Innovation & Research Integration: Bridges the gap between academic research and practical application for growers.
• Sustainability Focus: Promotes nutrient efficiency, reduced chemical use, and environmentally responsible farming practices.
• Knowledge Exchange: Facilitates direct interaction among growers, agronomists, researchers, and suppliers.
• Future-Proofing the Industry: Highlights advanced breeding, pest and disease management, and technologies to enhance resilience and productivity.

Practical Information for Attendees

• Visitors should register in advance. Wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear for field conditions.
• Parking is available on-site with guidance from event staff.
• Meeting spaces are available for discussions with exhibitors or researchers.
• Exhibitors can apply to showcase machinery, technology, and field plots.

Why PiP 2026 Matters

• Demonstrates cutting-edge technology such as drones, precision agriculture, and remote sensing.
• Supports sustainable and resilient potato farming through research-backed seminars and field demonstrations.
• Provides an essential networking platform across the potato industry.
• Offers practical, field-based learning to accelerate adoption of innovative techniques.
• Contributes to the long-term sustainability and growth of the potato sector.