Will rain come in time for early potatoes?

In view of a shortage between the last old harvest and the new French fries potatoes, factories and potato growers have anticipated this situation as much as possible. The availability of Première in particular caused some puzzling, but in the end it does not look like this has led to any major problems, just like with the main harvest. Alternative varieties have been used where necessary.

More early potatoes
In Belgium, the area of ​​early potatoes took a hit last year. The area decreased sharply and amounted to 6.300 hectares. For this year, PCA expects an area of ​​7.500 hectares. That is a plus of 20% compared to last season. Most early potatoes are in Flanders, where arable farmers were able to get started on time.

Belgium received slightly more rain in April than the Netherlands. In many places in our country it stopped at 10 millimeters. The last days of April should change that. Less than 10 millimeters fell along the Belgian coast, but around and below Brussels it is sometimes double that. However, April remains very dry.

Drought in Germany
Germany is also suffering from drought. A combination of bright sun and a strong easterly wind has dried out the country. This caused serious sandstorms locally. What little soil moisture was here has evaporated. Some areas, such as those around the city of Celle (near Hannover), already have an irrigation ban This is. After last season, the groundwater supply is extremely low.

However, the weather is changing and rain is forecast from Wednesday 24 April. Expectations vary up to 70 millimeters in the Netherlands. In Belgium, the precipitation sum is slightly lower until May 1, with approximately 50 millimeters in the border area (with the Netherlands). In Germany, a lot of water is also expected locally, up to 100 millimeters. Further north, it is estimated that it will remain limited to 30 millimeters in the coming days.

Poor start
Planting was done everywhere in Europe in the past. Since the season initially started cold and sparse, growth was slow at first. Now that the soil has warmed, the crops are getting going. However, it does need to be irrigated. In early German production areas, the first non-skin firm table potatoes are expected in mid-May, which the market is also eagerly awaiting. Further consequences due to frost damage are not reported.

In France the change in weather has now taken place. This also puts an end to the very high temperatures. The early potato area in Bordeaux is experiencing changeable weather and some small showers.