Potato sprout-suppressant manufacturer Luxan has launched a new initiative to support potato growers, merchants, processors and fogging contractors and promote best practice when applying anti-sprout products in store.

The STAR (Storage Treatment And Residues) Initiative will ensure Gro-Stop users are kept up-to-date with the latest regulatory information on chlorpropham (CIPC) as well as providing essential tips on keeping residues to a minimum.

“We’re keen that anyone applying our CIPC, as in Gro-Stop, can do so with absolute confidence that applications will maintain crop quality, while benefiting from the minimal residues of our low dose programme,” explains Luxan UK managing director Malcolm Nursey.

The move by the company has been made to address proactively any concerns over CIPC residues, following last year’s introduction of a ten parts per million Maximum Residue Limit (MRL). “Research has shown that even the most robust Gro-Stop programme results in residues below 5ppm, when the recommendations for use are followed. We’re keen to equip users with the facts, the information and advice they need to assure their customers that best practice is being followed.”

Those who join the STAR Initiative will receive e-mail updates and access to regulatory issues, the crop in store, usage around the UK and Gro-Stop product data. The information provided will help all users demonstrate that with low rate usage, low residues from CIPC products are achievable in the UK.

For effective sprout control, Mr Nursey recommends using Gro-Stop 100, following Luxan’s low dose, low residue programme. At the recommended dose of 20ml per tonne, this delivers just six grammes of active ingredient with each application, of up to a maximum of five doses, if necessary. “Many growers throughout the UK are now using Gro-Stop 100 throughout the storage season, confident it will keep sprouting at bay, while residues are the lowest you’ll find.  The additional benefit is that potatoes can be removed from store just two days after the last application.”