Sep 4, 2024Late blight confirmed in Minnesota potato field
Late blight has been confirmed in a potato field in Minnesota, which has been desiccated. Samples are being analyzed for genotyping.
The disease was confirmed on Aug. 29, according to Andy Robinson, an Extension potato agronomist in Minnesota and North Dakota.
Current recommendations are to diligently scout fields, especially in areas that remain wet for longer periods, such as along shelterbelts and in low areas or areas that are difficult to spray. The use of premium fungicides is recommended, especially for fields that are planned to grow through September or will be stored.
Additional information about late blight is available in the North Dakota State University Extension article “Late Blight in Potato” (.pdf).
Crop update
This year’s potato crop in North Dakota and northwest Minnesota is in good condition, with harvest of the Red River Valley’s red and yellow fresh crop just underway and running a week or two behind last year’s early start, according to
A Northland Potato Growers Association report. The processing harvest is further along.
In North Dakota, the potato harvest has reached 3%, near last year’s 4% and the 2% average. In Minnesota, potato harvest has reached 12%, behind last year’s 18% and the 19% average.
The latest USDA Crop Progress and Condition Report rates three-quarters of the crop in good to excellent condition. Excessive rain may have taken out a few acres, but nothing of substantial note. A cooler summer benefited plant health and quality but may contribute to a slight decrease in yields.
In North Dakota (.pdf), potato condition was 12% excellent, 63% good, 20% fair, 3% poor and 2% very poor. Potatoes vines dry was 41%, behind 54% last year and near the 43% average.
In Minnesota (.pdf), potato condition was 26% excellent, 66% good, 7% fair and 1% poor.
