THE Nematicide Stewardship Programme (NSP) is reminding potato growers to follow the best practice protocol if they need to apply granular nematicides, ahead of spring 2025, to help ensure products are used safely and remain available for future use.
NSP Working Group Chair, Patrick Mitton, highlights the vital role granular nematicides play in integrated pest management.
“As readers well know, Potato cyst nematode (PCN) continues to be one of the most significant challenges to sustainable potato production, costing the industry an estimated £50 million annually.
“To combat this, the granular nematicide fosthiazate remains an essential tool as part of an integrated programme of control, enabling growers to produce high-quality, nutritious potatoes while keeping on top of PCN,” he said.
“An IPM focused approach to nematicide use, alongside cultural control methods, is vital in maintaining productivity and protecting soil health.”
NSP’s Best Practice Protocol
The Nematicide Stewardship Programme (NSP) was formed in May 2015, to promote the correct use of the nematicides.
The programme includes all stakeholders involved in the supply, distribution and use of these products, along with those who purchase crops, including representatives from NFU, PPA, Syngenta UK Ltd, Red Tractor Assurance, FPSA, and NIAB.
The NSP’s framework for responsible nematicide use encourages growers to concentrate on training, calibration, and environmental safeguards as part of a programme which helps achieve effective and sustainable pest control.
A reminder of the key areas for growers to be aware of are outlined in NSP’s Best Practice Protocol as follows:
1. Qualify: All operators must hold a PA4 or PA4G certification and are required to register with the National Register of Sprayer Operators (NRoSO).
2. Calibrate: Applicators should be inspected daily for damage or wear, with certified checks by a National Sprayer Testing Scheme (NSTS) engineer every two years. The volume of nematicide used must align with the area treated, ensuring the correct application rate. Calibration guidance is available on the NSP website.
3. Single Pass: Nematicides must be incorporated into the soil in a single pass immediately prior to planting, leaving no granules on the surface.
4. Shut Off: Applicators must be fitted with an in-cab device to shut off granule flow at least 3 meters from the end of rows, allowing all pipework to clear before the applicator is lifted.
5. Spillages: Spillages should be managed carefully:
• Small spillages must be buried immediately.
• Large spillages should be collected in a labelled nematicide container for return to the manufacturer, with remnants on the soil buried promptly.6. Check: Fields should be inspected 12 to 24 hours after application to identify any adverse effects on wildlife. Particular attention should be given to field edges, headlands, and areas where equipment was started or stopped.
For more information, visit the NSP website to ensure your practices align with the latest recommendations.
