Control measures

To minimise the risk of accidents, the following measures are recommended for the use of herbicides:

• check that the product is officially authorised for potatoes and apply it as recommended (e.g. according to the type of soil) and check the degree of compatibility with other pesticides;

• with a mixture of products, follow the instructions and the recommended order of introduction into the tank: WP (wettable powder); WG (water granules); SL (soluble liquid concentrate); SC (suspension concentrate); EC (emulsifiable concentrate);

• do not treat in extreme climatic conditions: high temperatures, damp or dry soil and strong winds (to avoid the risk of drift);

• avoid overdosing and spray overlapping;

• with pre-emergence herbicides, treat after the ridges are finally prepared and prior to emergence of the plants;

• do not apply metribuzine-based products on cultivars susceptible to this active ingredient;

• make sure the sprayer has been thoroughly rinsed;

• under no circumstances should a product be left in the sprayer for several days: rinse the equipment immediately after use.

Furthermore, it is highly advisable to use certified seed potatoes and, in the case of rented land, to check which pesticide treatments were applied to the previous crops.