Potatoe Blight already

[RandA]

I planted my first early potatoes in March. They were in a no dig muncipal council compost.   They were looking good until 2 weeks ago when we have been struck with blight.  I think thisis really early, has anyone else had these problems?

Does anyone know if it is ok to cut the remaining foliage off and leave the potatoes in the soil? So far they are not affected and I am anxious to know what is best to do.

I welcome all comments on this problem

Ali

[charles]

First earlies are dying off at this time of year, especially from March plantings. They only grow for two or three months then fizzle out.
So I suspect that it is old age. For example are the leaves actually mushy and smelly (blight) or mottled, brown spots, yellowing (general dieback)?
Anyway cutting off the tops is fine and I would eat them soon as the flavour won’t improve and slugs will be interested. 

[digWinstanley]

Could be verticillium wilt – a soil borne fungal disease. My first earlies have it unfortunately. It’s tempting to say it’s a bit early but I know Blight Alert have logged outbreaks already.

[Author]

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