Key Considerations for Potatoes

NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

Potatoes are the leading vegetable crop in the U.S., with production totalling approximately 441 million cwt in 2017. To achieve a successful crop with a healthy number of packable tubers, nutrient management and agronomy are key. So consider nutrient use efficiency products as part of your fertility plan — by encouraging improved uptake of key nutrients, these products can encourage more rapid growth and healthier plants, helping you maximize your ROI. .

WATER & SOIL REQUIREMENTS

While potatoes do best in well-structured, well-drained soils, they are a flexible crop that can be grown in a wide variety of soils. That being said, they do require very specific soil temperatures for successful root development — typically 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, potato crops also require plenty of water for optimal growth.

PEST MANAGEMENT

Potato cyst nematodes are one of the most common pest problems for potato crops. To combat insect pressure, pesticides and/or an integrated pest management program are key.

Key Nutrients

• Nitrogen — Critical in the first few stages for early growth. Ensuring optimal N uptake is very important for a successful potato crop, as nitrogen deficiency is typically the number one cause of limited growth.
• Potassium — Helps enhance potato quality and size, and vitally important in the first two growing stages for improved growth and dry matter.
• Phosphorus — Very important in early stages, when roots are close to the surface, then used sporadically for tuber growth.