How to batch test potato seed before treatment

All seed isn’t created equal. That’s why you may decide to perform a batch test on your potato seed – to see how each variety and lot received on the farm responds to your chosen seed treatment.

Here’s how to conduct a batch test:

1. Examine the seed prior to testing to understand its physiological age, condition, any disease levels, and other characteristics inherent to the seed.
2. Conduct the batch test using approximately 40 seed tubers in four replications. Remember to sample seed from different areas of the received load.
3. Cut seed to 2 to 2.5 ounces (i.e. 56-70 g) with a maximum of two cut surfaces per seed.
4. Treat the seed as directed by the label of your chosen seed treatment. At this stage, you’ll also need to decide if an inert dust should be applied to aid in suberization of your seed pieces.
5. Store treated seed pieces in a cool, dry place, ideally at 10ºC with plenty of ventilation and high humidity (95%). However, keep in mind that you’ll get the most effective results if you replicate the storage conditions on your farm. Be sure to take your own practices into consideration at the step.
6. Examine the seed after two weeks in storage. If it’s showing good signs of healing and you’re happy with the results, treat the rest of your seed and remember to follow these 10 best practices.