Changes in Vine Moisture Content and Yields Following Chemical Desiccation of Potatoes (1998-2000) - 3 pages
Trials were conducted in from 1998-2000 on the Department of Plant Sciences Potato Research plots located in Saskatoon. The crop was planted in mid-May. In all three years Ranger Russet, Russet Burbank and Russet Norkotah were tested, while in 1999 and 2000 Shepody was also evaluated. The crop was irrigated and standard pest management and fertility recommendations were followed. The desiccant Reglone (diquat) was applied in the first week of September at 1.0 l/a via a ground sprayer in 120 l/a of water. The plots were sprayed in the evening to maximize efficacy of the product. Seven days after the initial application of top killer, a second application was made (0.75 l/a in 120 l water). The crop was harvested at specific intervals after top-killing with a small plot harvester.
Timing of harvest;
a) Fresh harvest (1st week of September) - this approximates the typical time of top kill for seed
and table potatoes in Saskatchewan.
B) Top-Kill + 10 days (3rd week of September) - 10-14 days after top killing represents the
earliest growers can typically expect to harvest after top killing.
C) Top-Kill + 20 days (1st week of October) - by this point, growers expect the crop should be
ready to harvest. Any further delay increases the risk of frost damage.
One third of the plot was harvested at each interval.
