Nichino UK

In an exceptionally dry and challenging potato-growing season, making the right desiccation decisions has never been more important. In this podcast, Oliver Johnson, Commercial Technical Manager, is joined by Stef Dierickx, Business Development Manager, to discuss the impact of prolonged heat and drought on potato crops across Europe. The conversation explores how extreme weather conditions are affecting crop development, yield potential and the risk of secondary growth in both irrigated and non-irrigated crops. Oliver and Stef share practical insights into recognising the symptoms of secondary growth, understanding its potential consequences for tuber quality, and why careful crop monitoring is essential following rainfall or irrigation events. Drawing on experiences from both the UK and Europe, they explain why a measured and considered approach to desiccation may be particularly important this season. The discussion also highlights key considerations around flailing, crop stress, skin set and protecting storability to maximise the value of harvested potatoes. Listeners will gain valuable advice on maintaining crop quality and making informed desiccation decisions in a year where traditional approaches may need adapting. Join us as we examine how careful agronomy and thoughtful crop management can help safeguard potato quality when conditions are anything but typical.

In an increasingly unpredictable climate, achieving consistent crop establishment and weed control has never been more important. In this podcast, Oliver Johnson, Commercial Technical Manager, and Alan East, Director of Business Development, discuss the challenges facing growers and agronomists when using pre-emergence herbicides in variable seasonal conditions. The conversation explores how factors such as soil moisture, temperature and rainfall can influence herbicide performance and overall crop outcomes. Oliver and Alan share practical insights into the role of adjuvants and how they can help optimise spray application, retention and efficacy. Drawing on both scientific research and field experience, they explain how adjuvant technology can support more reliable pre-emergence herbicide programmes. The discussion also highlights key considerations for growers seeking to improve consistency across different field and weather scenarios. Listeners will gain valuable advice on maximising the return from herbicide investments while supporting robust weed management strategies. Join us as we examine how the right combination of agronomy, adjuvant technology and application practice can help deliver consistency when conditions are anything but predictable.