Growers in Guarapuava (PR), Água Doce (SC), and Bom Jesus (RS) are expected to begin harvesting the rainy-season potato crop in the second half of December. These regions will supply limited early volumes through December, with availability increasing from January. Other areas in southern Brazil are expected to reach peak harvest during December.
In Guarapuava, planting of the first part of the crop was completed in October, with the second phase beginning in November. Producers report that rainfall has been frequent without excess, supporting crop development. Warm days and cooler nights have also contributed to production. There were no frosts during the cycle, which typically occur in some years, allowing uninterrupted development and raising expectations for high productivity.
Reports from the first half of November include late blight associated with rain and cold, and early blight in seed areas planted in early August that are now nearing the end of the cycle. Dry weather earlier in the season, crop rotation, and slightly warmer recent temperatures have led to flea beetle and leaf miner pressure in early November. These issues are reported to be under control and are not expected to reduce yields or quality.
In Água Doce (SC), growers expect to complete 57% of planting by the end of November. The earliest fields are at mid-cycle, with harvest expected to begin at the end of December and increase in January. Conditions are described as normal, with no need for intensified pest or disease management. Frost occurred early in the planting period, but the crop had not yet emerged, and producers report improved plant health as a result. Rainfall volumes are adequate for the cycle.
In Bom Jesus (RS), harvest is also expected to begin at the end of December. By the end of the month, approximately 70% of planting should be complete, compared with about 50% by the end of this week. Weather conditions have been favorable, with regular rainfall and no excess. Producers report leaf miner pressure in fields nearing the end of the cycle, early blight from around 60 days after planting, and late blight present throughout the season.
The three producing regions are entering the final phase of crop development under an overall stable weather pattern, with growers monitoring disease and insect pressure as harvest approaches.
Source: HF Brasil
