When it comes to producing high-quality, marketable potato crops in the northeastern U.S., it all starts with a strong seed treatment. From PA to ME, the cool temperatures and frequent rain provide an ideal climate not only for growing potatoes, but also for nurturing several diseases and pests. According to Kiran Shetty, Ph.D., technical product lead for Syngenta, northeastern potato growers are most likely to encounter the following diseases:

1) Rhizoctonia, a seed and soilborne pathogen. Because Rhizoctonia thrives in cool, wet soils, this disease is a pressing issue in northeastern states.

2) Fusarium or fusarium dry rot, a fungus that attacks the seeds. Ultimately, this fungus will rot the seed, causing poor plant emergence or sudden death of the seedling.

3) Black dot, a soilborne disease. While this pathogen is not as potent as others, it still infects the tubers enough to damage the plant and reduce crop yields.

4) Silver scurf, a post-harvest concern. This disease creates brown blemishes that lowers the aesthetic and market value of infected potatoes.

On top of fighting disease, growers also face the challenge of managing pests. The most prevalent insects to threaten northeastern potatoes include Colorado potato beetles, potato aphids, and potato leafhoppers.

In this Spud Doctor episode, Shetty visits a storage facility in Fryeburg, ME to explain how CrusierMaxx^® Vibrance^® Potato seed treatment works to defend northeastern potato crops from these common disease and pest pressures.

CruiserMaxx Vibrance Potato combines the power of four 4 ingredients to build stronger roots, fight off diseases, and protect against key insect pests. Plan ahead for seed and soilborne pathogens and common pests this growing season, and start strong with a seed treatment.

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