Sprout inhibition can either be carried out in the field or in the storage during November and December. Processing and fresh-market potatoes to be stored past January are normally treated with a sprout inhibiting chemical. Storages containing MH60 treated potatoes do not become contaminated with the sprout inhibitor and pose no restrictions for the future storage of seed. CIPC treated storage are contaminated with sprout inhibitor and should not be used for seed storage until thoroughly cleaned.
Field treating reduces the likelihood of volunteer potatoes the following spring.
Under certain growing conditions, there can be a reduction of misshapen tubers. In some cases storage shrink is reduced. The crop development must be monitored to ensure the correct timing of application. Incorrect timing can result in a yield loss or inadequate sprout inhabitation. MH be must translocated to the tubers and therefore it must be applied after tuber formation and while vines are still green and actively growing.