Potatoes in Practice 2026 takes place a week later than usual, on Thursday 13th August, at The James Hutton Institute’s Balruddery Farm in Invergowrie, near Dundee.
Potatoes in Practice is hosted by The James Hutton Institute through the National Potato Innovation Centre (NPIC) in partnership with SRUC and Agrii.
With a strong focus on future-proofing the potato industry, the event offers an unmissable opportunity for growers, agronomists and industry professionals to engage directly with scientists, breeders and fellow farmers to gain practical insights into current challenges and opportunities across the sector.
The working demonstration from the National Robotarium’s dog robot, SPOT is sure to be of interest to many. Watch him in action as he auto walks through the plots. As well as seeing his autosurvey and monitoring activities in action, there will be ample opportunity to chat to the team from the National Robotarium about this data-driven approach to farming that can reduce costs and minimise negative environmental impacts and how agricultural robots can fit within systems to assist human effort.
And, for the first time, Potatoes in Practice will include a live cookery demonstration by Sarah Rankin, former MasterChef finalist and now a well-established food writer, broadcaster and private chef. A passionate advocate of local produce and food made with love, Sarah’s potato-based dishes promise to inspire visitors and highlight the versatility and value of this staple crop.
All in all, this event offers a full day with a comprehensive programme of exhibitors, field trials and technical seminars allowing visitors to explore the latest research, innovation and crop developments shaping the future of potato production.
Tickets are free and available now on Eventbrite.
