POTATO
The potato (Solanum tuberosum) is an herbaceous annual plant that thrives in relatively cool and temperate climates with minimal temperature fluctuations. Sowing can take place either in winter (December-March) or summer (July-September). The sowing season is determined based on the region and climatic conditions. Depending on the variety, the plant grows up to 100 cm in height and produces tubers.
Potato Cultivation:
- Sowing
The potato prefers soils with low conductivity, good drainage, and soil pH levels between 5.5 and 6.5. If the soil is too dry, it is recommended to irrigate the field before sowing. The depth of planting the tubers depends on the soil type. Planting at a depth of 14-16 cm is preferred for heavier soils, while in lighter soils, the potato seed is planted a little deeper, around 15-20 cm. For certain varieties that produce tubers high up, it is ideal to plant them at a depth equal to or greater than 20 cm.
The planting distance between rows is usually 70-75 cm, while the spacing on the row depends on the variety and ranges from 30-40 cm. The amount of seed potatoes required depends on their size.
The plant population ranges from 2,500 to 6,000 plants per acre.
Planting of potato tubers should take place when the soil temperature exceeds 5°C. The root system of the potato can develop in soil temperatures ranging from 10 to 35°C. The optimal soil temperature for root development and the onset of tuber formation is between 15 and 20°C. Low temperatures during germination delay development and simultaneously promote the growth of bacterial and fungal diseases. - Plant Development
Potato fields do not tolerate low temperatures below -1°C. In cases of drought and high temperatures, irrigation is required, especially in the early stages of germination and plant growth until tuber formation begins. Potatoes are grown in various soil types; however, they are more favored in fertile, light soils (loamy, sandy loam) with sufficient organic matter and low clay content.
Potato Cultivation Requirements
- Fertilization
For proper fertilization of potatoes, soil testing should be performed to accurately determine the necessary needs, mainly for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. Applying the correct amount of fertilizer and the necessary nutrients both in the early stages of cultivation and during plant development ensures increased production of high-quality products and maintains soil fertility. - Plant Protection
Like most plants, the potato is susceptible to various diseases. Timely intervention is necessary to address them, and it is always recommended to seek the guidance of experienced agronomists and use appropriate pesticides. The potato plant can be attacked by various insects, such as: Aphids, Flea beetles, and nematodes, as well as several fungi, including: Late blight and Alternaria. - Irrigation
The potato is a crop with high water requirements, so the soil moisture should not drop below the levels that limit its development at different stages of its growth. The frequency of watering and the amount of water depend on the soil type, ambient temperature, planting density, the growth stage of the crop, and the variety. The water requirements are lower in the early stages of growth and in the final ripening stage, and higher during the tuber development stage. The recommended irrigation methods for potatoes are drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation.
Sprinkler Irrigation: This method involves using micro-sprinklers to distribute water over the crop. The micro-sprinklers are adjusted to provide uniform coverage, ensuring each plant receives adequate water. Over-wetting the foliage should be avoided to prevent plant disease.
Drip Irrigation: Drip irrigation is highly recommended for potatoes. Water wastage is minimized, as evaporation and runoff are reduced. This method allows precise control over water quantities, ensuring the correct moisture levels without wetting the soil excessively.
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