PCN Action Scotland has introduced an interactive decision support tool designed to help growers assess the effects of potato varieties, cover crops, and nematicide use on field scenarios. The Potato Cyst Nematode decision support system, known as PCN-SP, is part of a five-year project funded by the Scottish Government and supported by research and advisory organisations, including The James Hutton Institute, SAC Consulting, Scottish Agronomy, SoilEssentials, BIOSS, the Plant Health Centre, and SASA.
The tool uses Scottish and UK field data to support management of potato cyst nematode, which remains one of the most persistent challenges for the UK potato sector. PCN-SP is free to access and presents a digital platform for assessing variety resistance, evaluating nematicide options, and planning rotations.
An estimated 41 per cent of Scottish ware potato land carries PCN infection, which affects yield and increases the risk of further spread. Regulations prohibit seed potato cultivation on infected land, but long-term management still depends on shifts toward resistant varieties and more informed rotation strategies.
Dr James Price of The James Hutton Institute said, "Key to managing PCN infection is choosing a potato variety with resistance. The PCN-SP allows users to carry out digital trials, viewing the effect of varietal choice on PCN populations and the impact on yield. This model represents the most up-to-date decision support tool for PCN management, allowing growers to see how much their choice in potato variety matters."
Dr Kerry Leslie of SAC Consulting added: "Having access to an in-depth tool like the PCN-SP allows growers, alongside their agronomists and consultants, to quickly and effectively take the PCN scenario they face in a field and assess ways to improve on the problem in an easy, visual way."
The PCN Action Scotland project was launched in response to rising PCN pressure. Earlier tools, including the AHDB PCN Calculator, had served growers for several years, but the increasing complexity of PCN management and the introduction of new varieties led to the development of an updated system that reflects current field conditions and science.
PCN-SP was developed by SoilEssentials using trial data produced at Barnyards farm in Angus and input from growers. Advanced modelling techniques were used to integrate resistance profiles, population dynamics, and yield responses.
The tool will be formally presented at a British Potato 2025 seminar on 19 November.
Source: AGCC
