Netherlands: Using a biostimulant gives good results in potato cultivation
Growing healthy and resilient crops is a major challenge. Limited fertilization space, a shrinking range of resources and extreme weather conditions are factors that hinder undisturbed growth.
In addition to external factors (abiotic stress), tuber formation and flowering are sensitive stages during growth and can be seen as a ’natural stress moment’ for the potato plant, according to Agrifirm.
Biostimulant Quantis
The use of Quantis™ ensures that the processes in the plant continue to run smoothly during sensitive stages, even without abiotic stress. Quantis is a biostimulant based on amino acids, organic carbon and nutrients that can help the plant through a critical period.
9.1% more yield
In the period 2021-2024, around 40 practical trials were carried out at growers throughout the Netherlands, including 19 in the northeast of the country. In both consumption and starch potatoes, the dual use of Quantis resulted in more and larger tubers per hectare and also a clear increase in yield. The average yield increase of all grower trials in the Netherlands 2021-2024 was 6.7 percent. The trials on sandy soils in Drenthe/Overijssel gave an average additional yield of 9.1 percent in the same period.
A scientific study by the University of Nottingham (2024) substantiates the effect of Quantis; it increases photosynthesis efficiency, both with and without heat stress, and positively influences the hormone balance.
Strengthen your potato crop
Agrifirm advises to apply 2 l/ha Quantis around tuber formation, which is often the moment when the plants start to touch each other in the row. Apply the follow-up spraying at an interval of two weeks. If there is then heat and/or drought stress, a third application is recommended. This also makes the potato plant less susceptible to abiotic stress during the sensitive stages.
Quantis reduces tuber loss and provides better tuber filling at a later stage when the plants are subject to stress, for example due to heat and/or drought. In short: Quantis promotes the resilience of the crop and improves the yield and quality of the potatoes.
Quantis can be mixed with other agents such as herbicides, insecticides and fungicides without any problems. In practice, no separate spraying is required, but the product can be added to standard Phytophthora spraying or to, for example, aphid or virus control.
Fuente: akkerbouwbedrijf.nl
