Miller Research to hold series of virtual potato disease, pest management webinars

Idaho-based Miller Research is planning a series of one-hour virtual webinars in February to address various topics on potato disease and pest management.

One Idaho State Department of Agriculture pesticide recertification credit and one Certified Crop Advisor (PM) have been awarded to each session. The Miller Research Potato Pest Management Series will include:

Feb. 16: Fusarium dry rot and Rhizoctonia canker and black scurf

We will discuss the susceptibility of different cultivars to Fusarium dry rot and review best management practices for avoiding dry rot in seed and at harvest. James Woodhall from the University of Idaho will join us to talk about different anastomosis groups of Rhizoctonia and we will talk about the results of recent fungicide trials for managing Rhizoctonia canker and black scurf. One ISDA pesticide recertification credit and one CCA (PM) have been awarded. Register here.

Feb. 18: Powdery scab and potato mop-top virus (PMTV)

We will discuss the recent research related to managing powdery scab, including the value of soil testing, selecting resistant varieties, and the use of fungicides for control. We will also discuss the relationship between powdery scab and potato mop-top virus (PMTV). Woodhall will join us to discuss the latest information in pathogen detection technology and Nora Olsen of the University of Idaho will talk about the development of PMTV symptoms in storage. Register here.

Feb. 23: Managing pink rot and Pythium leak

We will talk about the latest research on the most effective way to use phosphorous acid fungicides for controlling pink rot. We will also discuss the susceptibility of varieties to pink rot and leak and what post-harvest treatments are the most effective in reducing disease in storage. Register here.

Feb. 25: Foliar disease management and avoiding fungicide resistance

This seminar will discuss the strengths of weaknesses of different fungicide programs for managing early blight, brown spot, white mold, and late blight. We will also cover guidelines for responsible fungicide use with respect to avoiding the development of fungicide resistance. Register here.