PCN Action Scotland has launched the PCN Scenario Planner (PCN-SP), an interactive tool to help growers manage PCN, one of the most persistent threats to the UK potato industry. The PCN-SP can be accessed via dss.pcnhub.ac.uk or by scanning the QR code.

This free, easy-to-use web tool supports sustainable PCN management by allowing users to digitally assess the impact of varietal choice, nematicide use, and cover crops on PCN populations and yield through the integration of field trial data, grower feedback, and advanced modelling.

PCN affects an estimated 41% of Scottish ware potato land, reducing yields and income while increasing the risk of spread. Legislation restricts seed potato cultivation on infected land, but without improved management practices—such as adopting resistant varieties—the industry faces an existential threat.

PCN-SP has been designed and built from the ground up by SoilEssentials - as part of the decision support system work package of PCN Action Scotland. 

Dr James Price (James Hutton Institute) highlights that "varietal resistance is key to PCN control, and PCN-SP shows how much these choices matter". 

Dr Kerry Leslie (SAC Consulting) calls PCN-SP "a practical, visual tool for growers and agronomists to tackle PCN effectively across Scotland and the UK".

PCN Action Scotland, a five-year Scottish Government-funded initiative, brings together partners including The James Hutton Institute, SAC Consulting (SRUC), Scottish Agronomy, SoilEssentials, SoilEssentials, BIOSS, the Plant Health Centre, and SASA (Scottish Government).

PCN-SP was debuted with a live demonstration at the British Potato 2025 Event on the 19th of November. 

A project completion meeting will follow on the 18th of March 2026 at the The James Hutton Institute. Register here - Eventbrite page