During 2016, Dejex carried out an independent commercial scale trial on the soil conditioning rhizobacteria Rise P.  The trial carried out on potatoes compared standard commercial practice against standard commercial practice + Rise P.

There was a marked improvement in plant structure, canopy cover and nutrient uptake judged by leaf analysis.  Also increased tube initiation and overall crop yield.  The trial demonstrated tuber quality and yield benefits throughout the cropping cycle leading to better economic return.  The cropping area treated with Rise P outperformed both the control crop and UK average yields.

Other benefits to be investigated and confirmed in further trials were a reduction in incidences of oomycetae diseases and the potential to reduce base fertiliser levels due to earlier root system development.

The trial data showed consistently improved tuber number and tuber weight throughout, meaning Rise P could potentially be advantageous for both early and main crop potatoes.  This was despite difficult growing conditions with 3 times the normal monthly rainfall in June and 30% extra rainfall across the season.  Low cost application makes a strong economic case for its inclusion in a growers programme.

What is Rise P?

Rise P is a specially selected soil rhizobacterium that aggressively colonises the area around the plant roots (rhizosphere) and feeds on root exudates.  The feeding rhizobacteria in turn secrete enzymes (phytases) and their metabolites that enable better uptake of plant nutrients such as phosphorus and trace elements.  The overall result is healthier plants with lower root disease effects, lower mortality rates, better growth, higher yields and improved quality.

Application Rates

Rise P is best applied as a soil spray application at a rate of 1kG per hectare at planting or early post emergence.  The product can be tank mixed with a range of agrochemicals including early Amistar application, ask our BASIS trained advisers for guidance.