King edwards

[timmyc]

My king edwards are starting to die back already - yet they've not been in all that long I don't think (about 31/2 months) is this them being ready - or have I a potential disaster on my hands?

I haven't had a chance to have a really good look yet - but am concerned it could be potato cyst eelworm - how common is this?

Timmy C

[timmyc]

[Icyberjunkie]

No idea about the worm but  my King Edwards started to die back about 2 weeks ago but very slowly and still some green.  They went in about April so it may just be their time.  As this is my first year I have nothing to compare it against!

[Kepouros]

According to various authorities about 85% of the land used for commercial potato growing (other than for certified seed potatoes) is affected by PCN (Potato Cyst Nematodes).  They can be spread by  agricultural machinery, horticultural tools, and by the soil falling off unwashed potatoes in transport and storage.

However, although the eelworm capsules can remain dormant for many years, most `hatch` within the first 2 or 3 years, and so as long as a 4 year rotation is observed the infestation does not build up and the eelworm do not do serious damage.   A heavy infestation is usually very noticeable in the potato`s early stages as the growth becomes very stunted and the plant does not develop properly.

In your case I would suggest that your King Edwards, being early maincrop, started to bulk up towards the end of last month and are simply dying off naturally, as are my Desirees.

[timmyc]

thanks - what a relief!!!