Planting potatoes is difficult this season. The structure of the soil is generally good, but the showery weather throws a spanner in the works. That takes some getting used to after a number of dry years. Seed potato growers are in a hurry to plant the last potatoes because the final declaration date of the NAK is coming soon.
Almost all potatoes have been planted in the south of the Netherlands. In the north, some growers still need to do something. There are big differences. In places where there has been a heavy shower in recent weeks, growers have not had the chance to plant. While a colleague a few kilometers away, where the showers have passed, is already ready or almost ready.
Week postponement
"To accommodate seed potato growers, the NAK has already postponed the declaration date this year from May 21 to May 26," says Jeroen Winkelhorst, technical coordinator at the NAK. "In places in the south, the potatoes have already been planted, while in the north they are still being planted. It is difficult to estimate how many potatoes still need to be planted. There are major differences between the regions and growers may indicate their plots later by delay".
The weather reports predict rain for next week, making it uncertain whether the remaining potatoes can be planted. "We are cautious about further delays so as not to run into problems later in the season. The major differences in the development of the crop between the north and the south are an additional obstacle. Next week we will take stock and start "We are looking at how we should deal with the latest declarations that have not yet been finalized," says Winkelhorst.