The Seed Potato Classification Scheme (SPCS) ensures the continuing high quality of Scottish Seed Potatoes, by setting strict tolerances for freedom from disease and trueness to type. SASA is the Certifying Authority for the SPCS and also carries out a range of scientific activities in support of seed potato classification in Scotland. Virtually all Scottish seed potatoes are derived initially from pathogen-tested microplants held in SASA's nuclear stock unit.
Information on the SPCS, including application forms for tuber inspection and soil testing for Potato Cyst Nematode PCN, can be found in the Classification Scheme section.
In support of the SPCS, SASA carries out testing for potato cyst nematodes (PCN) and potato diseases, as well as monitoring the level of the aphids which spread some potato diseases.
All marketed seed potatoes must be of a variety on the GB Variety list. Information relating to the GB variety list is published monthly in the Plant Varieties and Seeds Gazette. Additional information on many varieties can be found in the AHDB archived Potato Variety Database.
Potato variety information can also be found on the European Cultivated Potato Database website. SASA also provides a service to identify potato varieties by DNA fingerprinting using a growing database of over 1,000 potato varieties for comparison including all UK listed varieties.
SASA