Potato farming is highly susceptible to pests and diseases that can drastically reduce yield and quality. Identifying and managing these threats early is crucial for a healthy harvest. In this guide, we’ll cover the top 5 pests and diseases in potatoes, how they affect your crop, and recommended treatments using effective agricultural products.
1. Early Blight and Late Blight in Potatoes
Blight is one of the most devastating diseases in potato crops. It comes in two forms:
- Early blight is caused by the fungus Alternaria solani, and it thrives in warm, humid conditions.
- Late blight, caused by Phytophthora infestans, develops in cooler, wet environments.
Symptoms:
- Dark spots on leaves and stems
- Rapid wilting and browning
- Crop loss within 3–5 days if untreated
Recommended Blight Control Products:
- TAJIRI 720WP
- META META 720WP
- MASTA GOLD 720WG
- KENTHANE 800WP
- PABLO 600WG
- TOMGOLD 440SC
- STOPDEW 250WP
These fungicides are highly effective when applied early and consistently throughout the growing season.
2. Fusarium Wilt in Potatoes
Fusarium wilt is a soil-borne fungal disease caused by different Fusarium species. It attacks the plant’s vascular system, leading to:
Symptoms:
- Yellowing and wilting of older leaves
- Browning of stems and complete plant collapse
- More severe in hot, dry conditions
Treatment:
- TOPGUARD 500SC – soil drenching for effective fungal control
Proactive soil management and crop rotation are also recommended to prevent recurrence.
3. Potato Cyst Nematodes
Nematodes are microscopic roundworms that attack potato roots, causing severe nutrient deficiencies.
Symptoms:
- Stunted growth and poor flowering
- Yellowing leaves and plant wilting
- Damaged roots with visible cysts
Recommended Nematicides:
- FOSCAP TOP 250ME
- NEMAMECTIN 50EW
Apply before planting and during early growth stages to protect root systems.
4. Potato Tuber Moth
The potato tuber moth is a major pest that damages both leaves and tubers.
Symptoms:
- Leaf mining and stem breakage
- Larval feeding tunnels inside tubers
- Unmarketable produce due to internal damage
Control Measures:
- Use certified, disease-free seed potatoes
- Apply FOSCAP TOP 250ME as a soil drench to prevent infestation
Proper storage and field hygiene are essential to limit moth population buildup.
5. Sucking Pests in Potato Crops
Sucking pests include a wide variety of insects that feed on plant sap using piercing-sucking mouthparts. These include:
- Aphids
- Thrips
- Whiteflies
- Leafhoppers
- Mites
- Bugs and flies
Damage:
- Leaf curling and discoloration
- Reduced plant vigor
- Transmission of viral diseases
Best Control Products:
- ARAGON 220ZC
- ACETAK TOP 700WG
- VENDEX 50EC
Apply these insecticides during early infestation for maximum effectiveness.
Final Tips for Potato Pest & Disease Management
- Rotate crops and avoid continuous potato planting in the same field
- Monitor regularly for early detection of symptoms
- Use integrated pest management (IPM) combining chemical, cultural, and biological controls
- Apply pesticides and fungicides following label directions and safety guidelines
Jecinta
We had a serious pest infestation, and I was at my wit’s end trying to control it with traditional methods. After using KENAGRO’ fumigation service, I’m amazed at the results! The team was professional, efficient, and explained every step of the process.