Participants learned about the Burger Farm’s experience in testing new methods of potato haulm destruction and were introduced to both chemical and non-chemical approaches to the desiccation of ware potatoes. Properly performed desiccation is an important agronomic measure, as it affects tuber maturation, skin quality, harvesting efficiency and the reduction of risks associated with tuber damage and infection.
The event brought together potato growers, researchers and experts, who presented practical experience and results obtained within the #PRIRAST and #CLIMAGROW operations and the targeted research project Development of a Sustainable Method for Potato Haulm Desiccation.
A significant part of the event was devoted to adapting potato production to climate change. The effects of drought and heat stress on potato growth and yield were presented, together with options for improving water-use efficiency and the importance of timely and professionally managed irrigation. The discussion also covered measures that growers can adopt to reduce the risks posed by increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
Technological innovations presented at PotatoEurope – PotatoEurope 2026, relating to modern approaches to potato production, crop management and harvesting, were also highlighted.
The event concluded with a practical demonstration of non-chemical potato haulm destruction using the HOAF KB 1.5 Twin Burner. The machine’s operation and its potential applications in practice were presented by Dr Peter Dolničar and Tomaž Poje, MSc, from the Agricultural Institute of Slovenia.
Events of this kind facilitate the direct transfer of research results and new technologies into agricultural practice while strengthening cooperation among research institutions, advisory services and growers. By jointly developing effective and environmentally responsible solutions, we contribute to more sustainable, resilient and competitive potato production in Slovenia.
