The number of problems with seed potatoes was less in the spring of 2017 than in 2016. This is apparent from the first results of the chain project 'Improving seed potato quality'.
As mentioned, there were more problems in 2016. The emergence problems for ware potatoes in that year were mainly caused by unfavorable conditions.
Cold and dry spring
The cold and dry spring and the good structure of the soil had a favorable effect on the conditions in the field (potatoes for consumption). In 2016, growers had to deal with a cold and wet spring. In addition, the structure of the soil was a lot worse in 2016.
However, in the past year CIPC was observed on the seed potatoes in a number of cases. This had a negative effect on the germination of the potatoes. The CIPC residues can be explained by, among other things, the use of dirty crates and seed potato storage where potatoes have been treated in the past.
Temperature data
In addition, data loggers have gained insight into the temperature of the seed potatoes during storage. This showed that the seed potatoes were stored below the recommended temperature in several cases.
In the future, the project group wants to develop a vitality test for seed potatoes and they want to investigate the influence of the underwater weight on the vitality of the potatoes.
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