Maintaining or improving the yield, quality and storage characteristics of root vegetables is vital in ensuring economic returns for the farmer and minimising wastage when in storage. By considering the soil type, climatic conditions and the eventual use of the crop we are able to choice the correct programme of products to maximise output. A number of different biostimulants are available with which can adapt the physiology of the crop and give additional benefits over and above normal fertiliser usage.

Potato & Cassava - Correctly timed applications of phosphate based products such as Nutriphos can increase tuber number in potatoes. This can be particularly useful on varieties which have low tuber number potential or on crops grown for seed production. Protaplex and Joust are able to stimulate bulking of ware varieties whilst Numerica Ultra improves overall yield by the general improvement in plant health and resistance to disease. In potatoes, correctly timed applications of Nutrical can also increase dry matter content which is important for crops grown for processing. Potatoes remove large quantities of potassium and a shortage can lead to a reduction in dry matter, and increases in discolouration, either caused by bruising at the time of lifting or subsequent blackening when cooked. Solar K32 applied as a foliar spray at the time of peak demand (40-60 days after emergence) will help supplement soil uptake, should this be limiting.

Carrot - The use of Nutrical on carrots will help to balance calcium nutrition, leading to a reduction in cavity spot and a higher saleable yield, whilst all root crops grown on soils prone to deficiency will benefit from either single micronutrient sprays of Solar or Fusion. Alternative the multi-nutrient Fusion Tracer can be used. The use of Magnum Hydra in irrigation systems has a major impact on efficiency of water and nutrient use.