How do you prevent white mold on potatoes?

White mold, caused by the fungus *Sclerotinia sclerotiorum*, is a common issue in potato crops, affecting plant growth, yield, and quality. Here are some strategies to prevent white mold on potatoes:

Use Clean Seed Potatoes:

- Start with certified disease-free seed potatoes. Avoid using tubers that show any signs of white mold or other diseases.

Crop Rotation:

- Practice crop rotation to avoid a buildup of fungal pathogens in the soil. Avoid planting potatoes in the same field for multiple consecutive seasons.

Good Sanitation:

- Clean and disinfect equipment and tools used in handling and processing potatoes to prevent spreading the fungus from infected plants to healthy ones.

Remove Crop Debris:

- Remove and destroy plant debris, including infected stems and tubers, after harvest. This helps eliminate potential sources of infection for the next planting season.

Proper Spacing and Ventilation:

- Proper spacing between potato plants allows for good air circulation, reducing the humidity levels and minimizing the risk of white mold development.

Avoid Overhead Irrigation:

- Use drip irrigation or furrow irrigation instead of overhead irrigation. Overhead irrigation can splash water onto the foliage, increasing the chances of disease transmission.

Fungicide Application:

- Apply fungicides as a preventative measure before the disease appears. Timing of application is crucial, and local agricultural recommendations should be followed.

Early Harvesting:

- In areas where white mold is prevalent, consider harvesting potatoes slightly early, before the disease has a chance to develop.

Storage Conditions:

- Store harvested potatoes in well-ventilated, cool, and dry conditions to minimize the risk of fungus growth.

Monitor and Inspect:

- Regularly monitor your potato crop for signs of white mold. Early detection allows for prompt action and management of the disease.

Disease-Resistant Varieties:

- Consider growing white mold-resistant potato varieties if they are available in your area.

By implementing a combination of these preventive measures and following recommended cultural practices, you can significantly reduce the incidence and impact of white mold on your potato crop.