With the disappearance of chlorprofam, germ inhibition becomes an activity that demands attention again. Learn about the four solutions of germ inhibition, apply Argos and find out what data is available and how to deal with it. During an AgrioTV broadcast on 11 November, experts will use practical examples to comment live on the theme: ‘Germination potatoes, today and tomorrow’. The participating companies shall present themselves as:
Solentum: Measuring is knowing
The alternative means of germ inhibition that are available require a close monitoring of the conditions in the storage shed, says Johan Oenema, sales and marketing manager at Solentum. “Growers can then make quick and adequate adjustments. Data and its interpretation help.”
Solentum is an independent subsidiary of potato house HZPC and focuses on data solutions in the potato chain. One of them is SolAntenna, also known as the digital potato. It is a device in the form of a potato that measures three important factors in germ inhibition: temperature, humidity and the concentration of CO2. By placing several ‘digital potatoes’ in the batch, the conditions can be accurately tracked.
The digital potatoes send the data to the grower’s computer or mobile phone. Alerts can be set if certain levels are exceeded. “Growers use our solution, but suppliers of new germ inhibition means apply it. In this way, they optimize their advice to the growers”, says Oenema.
Delphy: Choose to suit the situation
The specific circumstances of the company play an important role in the choice of an alternative germ inhibitor, reports consultancy Delphy. “As a grower, you can choose from four solutions that are on the market”, explains Jan Salomons. He is a business advisor for arable farming at Delphy. To support the choice, Delphy developed the so-called Decision Tree Germination on behalf of the Trade Association Arable Farming (BO).
On the basis of questions about, among other things, the cultivation, storage space, equipment and the desired duration of storage, growers can come to a balanced choice for the best method of germ inhibition. “It is also important that arable farmers take into account the advice when applying the different methods. They are different from each other,” says Salomons.
UPL: Argos means different method
With Argos, UPL offers an alternative to chlorprofam. This orange oil-based product requires a different method of the potato grower. Like chlorprofam, the new drug Argos can be atomized, both cold and hot. The big difference with chlorprofam is that Argos inhibits germination based on the ‘burning off’ of small germs as soon as they appear, according to UPL. It is therefore important to carry out the treatment at the right time: not too late. Also, sufficient aeration (ventilation) in the storage shed is essential, as well as the correct adjustment and maintenance of the nebulizer. The potato variety and whether or not to treat Royal MH during cultivation also play a part in the successful application of Argos.
Sign up
More information about the SolAntenna of Solentum, the decision tree of Delphy or germ inhibitor Argos from UPL? Sign up for agrio’s webinar on 11 November in collaboration with these companies.
