New publications available on potato diseases

I have updated our research and extension publications for the latter part of 2007 and the first quarter of 2008. Most of the publications are available as .pdf files for download.

New weather station added to MAWN

A new weather station in Coldwater has been added to the MAWN. This station is now available on the Late Blight Resistance Management Network for those of you who live in the Coldwater area.

Physiologically Induced Heat Stress Posing Problems in Seed Potatoes.

A heat-induced problem affecting seed tubers produced in MI during 2007 may have manifested itself in reduced seed quality for 2008. Tests conducted at MSU have shown that seed tubers are failing to completely suberize after cutting (Fig. 1). This has been seen mainly in the variety Snowden although may be present in other varieties. For more information on this problem and recommendations on how to manage seed from MI in 2008 please refer to the Disease Update: Physiologically Induced Heat Stress Posing Problems in Seed Potatoes.

Fusarium Dry Rot Posing Problems in Potatoes

Fusarium dry rot is one of the most important diseases of potato, affecting tubers in storage and seed pieces after planting. Fusarium dry rot of seed tubers can reduce crop establishment by killing developing potato sprouts. This year there have been reports of Snowden seed lots affected although other seed lots may also be affected. For more information on how to combat this problem please refer to the Disease Update: Fusarium dry rot Posing Problems in Potatoes.

Late Blight Risk Monitoring 2008

The Late Blight Risk Monitoring system is now up and running for the 2008 growing season. Six new locations have been added to the network since last year. These are Arlene, Berrien Springs, East Lansing/MSUHTRC, Hickory Corners/MSUKBS, Keeler/South Hartford and Romeo.