Field inspections

Virus and bacterial diseases.

As soon as crops can be assessed (from the beginning of June onwards), the NAK inspectors set out into the fields. They visit each plot three times. During the field inspections they pay close attention to the crop's condition and development, the presence of diseases, varietal trueness and varietal purity. Virus and bacterial diseases are an important aspect of the inspections. The potatoes are then classified on the basis of the parental material and the results of the inspections.

The quality of seed potatoes is dependent on roguing. The Dutch seed potato grower removes all sick plants to ensure a high-quality crop. The framer protects his crop against aphids, that spread viruses, and against Phytophthora so as to prevent infections.