Potato blight control using components of indigenous non-food waste plants

Potato blight can hit farm profits hard as the disease can lead to complete crop failure. Recent estimates show that the control of the common disease can cost the industry a staggering £70m across the UK in a bad blight year.

This project is aiding the development of a natural biopesticide by using a chemical compound (Saponin) sourced from common Ivy.

“This trial could result in a brand-new market opportunity, to grow common ivy commercially, and to use its natural saponin to help organic growers reduce blight infestation.”

The generated biopesticide will aim to provide an effective, natural and potentially low-cost, alternative fungicide for potato blight.

“This will reduce crop wastage through decimation of crops through potato blight, and as a direct result allow increased potato sales, improved turnover and improved profitability.” 

The project is being led by representatives from Sarvari Research Trust and Emerald Crop Science and Naturiol Ltd. and trial plots are located on two farms, Ty’n yr Helyg near Llanrhystyd and Henfaes farm at Bangor University.

Reports, Videos and Articles:

Infographic (December 2019): Potato blight control result summary
Report (December 2019): Potato Blight Final Report
Technical Publication (July/August 2019): The first EIP Wales project crosses t…
Video (August 2018): - Ty'n yr Helyg Open Day 
Report (February 2018): Potato Blight Interim Report
Technical Publication (January/February 2018): Potato blight control using comp…