There has been some Fusarium stem rot but maintenance of aggressive growing conditions seems to have minimized occurrence of this disease. The major insect pest problems have been aphids and western flower thrips. Integrated control measures with reliance on biological controls have generally kept all pest populations in check. Western flower thrips populations have generally been well managed using biological controls. The Lygus bug has been observed in most operations but no major damage from this pest has yet been reported.
Cabbage loopers are present in most crops.
Increasing numbers of adult European corn borers have been observed. There has been one incidence of Red-banded leaf roller in this crop. Growth cracks, heat sprouting, and reduced tuber size are problems that have already been noticed in many fields. In non-irrigated land, the processing crop is yellowing and showing signs of moisture stress. Andovers and Atlantics are showing signs of maturity although tuber size is still small in many fields In the Shelburne area where soils are heavier, the crop is not showing drought stress symptoms yet.