Rot is a problem
Raising all sails in potato storage
While the potato harvest has been behind the shelves for several months, the growers continue to pay attention. Field staff of Aviko Potato note that rot occurs in almost every batch. Every effort must be made to keep damage to a minimum.
Potato growers who have had to deal with a lot of precipitation are usually aware of the problems. It is especially exciting at the edges of these areas. The product looked good at first glance, but rotten tubers still manifest themselves in storage. Aviko employees see this situation frequently.
Difference per breed
Most batches are under control, but checking 3 times a week remains required, the company recommends. New batches of rotten potatoes continue to appear. Most problems are detected in the west. The southwest and North Holland had to deal with a lot of precipitation. Especially the 'missile' de Agria causes storage problems. The tubers quickly infect each other. Victoria and Innovator keep better in custody, in the experience.
The harvest period was drier in the east and southeast, which means that the problems are less. However, here, too, arable farmers must be on their guard. Keep your attention, that's the motto of the field staff. Non-ideal conditions for ventilation do not benefit the storability. Drying hours are scarce this storage season.
The improvised storage areas are easily removed by the potato processor this season. Relatively many batches still go through the laundry for delivery, resulting in a lot of rejection. The baking figures of these parties are also disappointing.
Seed potato delivery early
In the meantime, the company has started early with the delivery of seed potatoes for the new season. The extradition did not go smoothly last year, due to a huge peak in April. The seed potato sale is therefore separated from the contracting, so that delivery can take place earlier. This has led to more seed potatoes being sold, compared to last year at this time. Sales started in November.
Growers can specify a preferred week for delivery for the first time. In this way, the logistics department hopes to be able to respond better to peaks in the delivery. Aviko couples a storage table to the early delivery, which should encourage growers to receive their seed potatoes earlier.
Niels van der Boom
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