[Lady Rosemary]

Hi folks

Got a couple of 1st and 2nd early potato plants that have blackened stems that have collapsed and I'm thinking that it may be blackleg.     If so, do I lift the plant and burn it so as to not infect neighbouring plants, and what's the likelihood of my whole crop being infected (have added photo of my 6 rows).

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Mandy

[mumofstig]

I've never seen stems go as black as that ! mine usually just rot at soil level and the leaves above go stunted and yellow.

Yes, dig them up before they infect the others. Any potatoes that are clear of rot can be eaten.

RHS advice here
http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=223

[Lady Rosemary]

Thanks Mum - greatly appreciated. 

Mandy

[Lady Rosemary]

Potatoes harvested from three infected plants.  Only had to dispose of a small handfull.  Very pleased indeed. 

[Paul Plots]

Potatoes harvested from three infected plants.  Only had to dispose of a small handfull.  Very pleased indeed. 

Served with butter I hope 

[Snoop]

Thanks for posting this, Lady Rosemary. I've had a few of my Charlottes go the same way. I thought I'd damaged the haulms when earthing up. There's a huge amount of knowledge to be gleaned on here from reading other people's posts. Thanks MumofStig.

You've got a fantastic haul there, Lady Rosemary. What variety are they?

[MickyB]

I have the same problem with blackleg affecting my Desiree potatoes, I initially removed about 5 plants, then a week or so later 6 or 7 more, I am trying to nip it in the bud to stop it spreading whilst also trying to give the other Desiree's that are not showing obvious signs of disease a chance. 

I would be curious to know if your other plants have been OK since you removed the diseased ones?

[Lady Rosemary]

Sorry I've not responded sooner but just got back from holidaying on the Norfolk Broads. 

Paul Plots - butter was indeed added to them after they were cooked and they were 'bootiful'. 

Snoop - they were Arran Pilot and only three plants were affected.  We harvested another three plants last night and they were all perfectly fine.

MickyB - since removing the three affected plants, the rest of the crop seem to be OK (touch wood).

We have 2 rows of Arran Pilot, 2 rows of Charlotte and 2 rows of King Edward and they all seem to be looking rather healthy, thank goodness. 

[MickyB]

.. .. .. .. MickyB - since removing the three affected plants, the rest of the crop seem to be OK (touch wood).
We have 2 rows of Arran Pilot, 2 rows of Charlotte and 2 rows of King Edward and they all seem to be looking rather healthy, thank goodness. 

Thanks that gives me some hope.