Approaches to the Control of Late Blight Phytophthora infestans in Organic Potato Crops

After a brief introduction to the history of the potato and to late blight, Phytophthora infestans, this chapter examines methods used to prevent and/or control late blight in organic potato production. The reliance on copper-base fungicides in organic potato production is problematic and they are either restricted, banned or threatened with a ban in many countries. Alternative agronomic strategies and treatments to the use of copper-based fungicides are reviewed, with a particular focus on the development of blight-resistant potato cultivars. The chapter concludes by questioning the implications of exclusive reliance on blight-resistant varieties in organic potato supply chains.