Warning new strain of potato blight could inflict serious yield reductions

A NEW strain of potato blight has been detected in Ireland, the Teagasc-IFA national potato conference was told yesterday.

First detected in Co Down in 2007, the so-called “Blue 13” strain has moved down along the east coast.

It is also spreading, though less dramatically, in Co Donegal. But it has not been found in potato growing areas of Co Cork.