The fact that the weather determines the development of the price and yield seems to be extra emphasized this year. Since last season was a season in which precipitation was scarce and yields were low, the tension seems to be even greater this season.
The market is starting to empty and processors would like to switch to the new harvest, which means that the new season will start significantly earlier than last year. The 2017 season was characterized by a huge surplus, meaning that chip factories were still processing potatoes up to and including week 34. This led to the new season being shortened by 1 month. That was a blessing in disguise, given the extreme drought and low yields.
This season starts earlier and we can assume that it will be a season with at least 12 months of processing. However, this is a situation that easily requires 8% to 10% more potatoes. The area in Europe has grown by 3% to 4%, which means that growth development will be crucial for further price formation. This year again the season seems to be characterized by weather extremes. We already had a relatively cold spring, followed by sufficient rain and a short period of extreme heat. What does this do to the potatoes? An overview of the situation in Europe.
France is off to a good start
France is becoming an increasingly important as growing area. The French growers had a good start to the season, although an irrigation ban was imposed early in several areas due to the extremely low water levels. However, about 3 weeks ago the crops were well supplied and most plots had sufficient rainfall. On the other hand, the extreme heat of the last few weeks has dealt a blow; Temperatures of up to 45 degrees Celsius have been measured.
The early potatoes from Bordeaux produce disappointing kilos, which is a signal that the plants have suffered from the heat. There is not much to say about the main harvest yet, except that there is considerable irrigation in Northern France. The drought is a concern for many French growers. All in all, the growers give the crop a 7,5.
Belgium escapes heat
The Belgian potato growers speak of a beautiful and healthy crop, with fairly good foliage development. The start was slow, but the crop has caught up quickly in recent weeks. There have also been enough showers to meet the initial moisture requirement. Belgian potatoes have also escaped the extreme heat that hit crops in France and Germany. The ridges are closed in time. However, there is a need for precipitation in the short term. The Belgian growers give the crop an 8,0.
No top harvest for Germany
Germany, on the other hand, has suffered from the heat wave. The early potatoes have taken a big hit and their growth has stopped, according to cultivation specialists. Therefore, no top harvest is expected in the early potatoes. In addition, the cold at the start of the season also played a role. For the main crop the condition of the crop can be considered reasonable to good.
Drought is already an important topic in Germany. For example, quite a few irrigation bans have already been imposed; especially in the north and east of Germany, crops are showing clear signs of drought. The low groundwater levels are also a cause for concern. It is striking that growers in Bavaria actually speak of too much precipitation. German growers currently give the crop a 7,0.
Big differences in the Netherlands
The differences within our country are great. The southwest of The Netherlands got off to a good start, with sufficient precipitation. This is despite the fact that Drenthe and the provinces in the east of the Netherlands have had too little rainfall, which means that the soil moisture has not been sufficiently replenished. The crop is growing well in the province of Flevoland, but there is now also plenty of irrigation there. In the provinces of North Brabant and Limburg, the crops are doing reasonably well, but water is urgently needed. Dutch growers currently give the crop a 7,5.
Excellent crops in England
Crops in England are currently doing well. The fact that there is sufficient water and good temperatures means that the crop is currently in good condition and that growth is going well. There is so much precipitation cases where the deficit from last year's drought has been resolved. The rivers and groundwater levels therefore record normal levels. The British growers give the crop an 8,5.
Conclusion?
The most important potato countries in Europe are in reasonable to good condition. However, the weather conditions, low groundwater levels and availability of water for irrigation make it very exciting for many areas. If there is insufficient rain in the coming weeks, the top of the harvest will be permanently gone.