At this point in time, potato crops around the UK are entering the highest threat level for blight. Hutton Criteria disease warnings were declared in key potato-growing areas. The AHDB’s BlightSpy tool has put growers across the East, South East and South West of England, the whole of Wales and South West Scotland on alert.
A Hutton Criteria period occurs after two consecutive days with a minimum temperature of 10°C and at least six hours of relative humidity (90%). It is used for blight risk reporting to help to support decisions, refine action plans and empower growers against blight.
After a cold first quarter, planting was delayed in many regions. This has meant that a significant proportion of crops are in the rapid growth phase as the threat of disease climbs higher.
Source: thescottishfarmer.co.uk
Photo source: Hutton.ac.uk
