Potatoes in practice

On 11^th August, 2016, over 800 farmers, agronomists, industry representatives, scientists and policymakers made their way to Balruddery Research Farm, Dundee, to participate in the largest field-based potato event in the UK: Potatoes in Practice.

Potatoes in Practice, hosted by the DISCO partner institution, the James Hutton Institute (JHI) in partnership with AHDB (Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board) Potatoes, SRUC (Scotland's Rural College) and Agrii, brought together demonstrations, research and trade exhibits.

A variety of seminars to exchange technical knowledge with potato growers were delivered, including talks from the European Association of Potato Research (EAPR) that highlighted international potato research. Live machinery demos, field plot displays, a ‘technical clinic’ and even a potato vodka prize draw were some of the activities taking place, making Potatoes in Practice a hands-on experience.

Dr. Raymond Campbell, of the JHI, showcased work from the FP7-DISCO project which investigated the environmental and genetic factors influencing production of the high-value compound solanesol, in potato. A plant-to-product display emphasised the potential that potato leaf has to be a sustainable source of solanesol. Using the leaves, which is typically waste material, as a solanesol source, can potentially add huge value to potato crop production.