Unable to use Reglone, the popular desiccant containing diquat, potato growers are now having to find other ways to remove the crop’s haulm. One obvious mechanical option is a topper, so we put four of them to the test … to find out how they perform

Potato growers are facing a massive challenge when it comes to dealing with crop haulm. There’s certainly no shortage of chemical solutions, but there is a huge gap between the costs and the benefits. Other options are using gas to burn it or high-voltage electric, but both of these methods are not as straightforward or costeffective as topping, particularly when there is a quick change of plan.