Haggard Stores Ltd, a renowned agronomy company based in the East of Ireland, is set to host its annual Potato Variety Day on August 22 in Kilmartin, Co Dublin. This event, which has become a key date in the agricultural calendar, will provide a platform for industry experts, commercial growers, and seed producers to gather and discuss the latest developments in potato variety trials.
A Legacy of Excellence in Potato Agronomy
Established in 1987, Haggard Stores Ltd has long been a cornerstone of Ireland’s potato industry. The company helps manage processing potato crops destined for the crisp and chip industry, and also supplies advice to growers of ware potatoes, particularly the popular Rooster variety.
In addition to crop management, Haggard Stores advises potato growers and treats their clients’ potato stores with advanced solutions such as DMN, mint oil, and orange oil, ensuring optimal storage conditions.
Pioneering Variety Trials in Ireland
Three years ago, Haggard Stores launched its potato variety trials in response to a growing need for localized knowledge about processing varieties.
“We started trialing potato varieties for our customers due to a lack of knowledge about certain processing varieties and their suitability for our climate,” said Stephen McCabe, agronomist with Haggard Stores Ltd.
“After a successful season, we stored each variety and tested them individually for dry matter (DM), sugars, and cooking quality, with the help of Tayto Snacks (Intersnack) and their technicians.”
This year marks the third iteration of these trials, now encompassing over 50 varieties – 32 crisp varieties and 20 fresh fry varieties.
The event will showcase presentations from representatives of several major breeding houses in Europe, including Meijer, Germicopa, Cygnet, Norika, Solana, HZPC, and Comptoir Du Plant.
Expert Discussions on Industry Challenges
The Potato Variety Day will feature key presentations from industry experts. Shay Phelan from Teagasc, the Irish government’s agricultural advisory body, will discuss the latest developments in late blight and the strains identified so far in 2024.
Additionally, a speaker from Agrovital, a UK-based company, will present on PVY control, a crucial topic for potato growers.
A Rigorous and Independent Trial Process
The trials are meticulously designed to ensure comprehensive evaluation. Each plot measures 50 meters in length and two beds wide, planted with the assistance of Grimme Ireland, the local agent for Grimme machinery.
“Fertiliser is on the low side to see how varieties will cope under a low nitrogen system,” McCabe explained.
Following the harvest in early October, weather permitting, each variety will be stored at 8 degrees Celsius and subjected to a battery of tests. These will include assessments for bruising, greening, cyanide levels, numbers, yield, and monthly evaluations of sugars and DM.
“We are independent of any breeding company or processing company, so we are trying to be objective in what we report on each variety,” McCabe emphasized.
The company’s focus has evolved from simply developing agronomic information to identifying varieties that can be grown with a lower carbon footprint and better storage characteristics than the main varieties currently cultivated in Ireland.
A Must-Attend Event for Potato Industry Stakeholders
Running from 10 am to 2 pm, the Potato Variety Day promises to be a highly informative event.
“We hope to have a great mix of industry representatives, commercial growers, and seed growers, which will make for a good discussion at each plot,” Stephen McCabe added.
For those involved in the potato industry, this event offers a valuable opportunity to gain insights into the latest research and developments in potato cultivation. With a blend of expert presentations and practical field demonstrations, Haggard Stores’ Potato Variety Day is set to be a highlight of the year for all attendees.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this important discussion on the future of potato farming in Ireland and beyond!
Source: Haggard Stores Ltd
Contact for further information:
Stephen McCabe, Agronomist
info@haggardstores.com
Tel: 353 (0)1 8355551
Images: Credit Haggard Stores
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