Field experiments on potato-scab control in Western New York

Summary

All of the data presented have been obtained from experiments in a district characterized by soils of fairly high pH values, most soils having values of at least pH 6.0.

Small but significant reductions in potato-scab were obtained by the use of formalin seed treatments.

Small but significant increases in potato-scab were obtained by the use of mercurial seed treatments.

The addition of mercurials to the soil has shown a consistent tendency to increase the percentage of scabbed tubers.

With equal rates of application finely ground sulfur has been more effective than inoculated sulfur.

Spring applications of sulfur after plowing have consistently given reductions in scab while applications before plowing have shown no current season control.

The varieties Netted Gem (one year’s results), Russet Rural, and White Blossom Irish Cobbler have shown a significant degree of scab resistance.