While on paper everything seemed to be in order with the transition to the new season, the reality is this year as well. Despite a good start to the growing season, all early potatoes have been disappointing in yield so far. The kilos are below the five-year average and processors have to do their best to keep the ovens working.
Belgapom kicked off the new season with a quotation of €18, which is also the lowest price to date. The demand is greater than can currently be supplied. The interim solution of getting potatoes from Bordeaux was also disappointing in practice with a lower harvest that was processed faster than expected. The early varieties have grown in area this season and can fill the gap between the old and new seasons. So far that doesn't seem to be the truth.
In Belgium, average yields of early potatoes are reported. Growers are often unable to irrigate in the important growing areas with early potatoes, resulting in early death. Moreover, it is too dry for harvesting: 30 to 40% soil is no exception when delivered to the processors.
Trade in storage varieties
In the Netherlands, yields also appear to be moderate to average. It is striking that there is already plenty of trade in the storage varieties. This week business was done for Fontane and Innovator for delivery week 31/32 for the price of €22.
In Germany too, the yields of early potatoes are not that bad, as they lag behind the multi-year average. The biggest concern in Germany is once again the north. Last year this cultivation area was already hit hard by the drought, but this year it seems to be happening again. The big question is how the crops get out of the drought and especially the heat period. Is there still growth potential left and what will happen to the quality (growth)?
For the time being, the demand for potatoes remains high, especially as long as the drought and heat continue. Whether we can achieve €25 off the land in the short term will mainly depend on the harvestability and yield of the potatoes.