The threat of rain over the coming weekend is prompting farmers in Ireland to complete the maincrop potato harvest as quickly as possible. Current ground conditions remain suitable, allowing field operations to continue without interruption.
With most other crops such as maize and beet already lifted, growers are prioritising potato harvesting before the weather changes. Reports indicate that maincrop yields are lower than in 2024, largely due to drought conditions during May, June, and July. Unirrigated crops, particularly in the north-east of the country, have been most affected.
Quality issues related to bruising, which were reported earlier in the season, appear to have eased. Growers attribute this improvement to the heavy rainfall that preceded Storm Amy and to adjustments made to harvesting machinery.
In some areas, rejection rates for early planted potatoes remain higher than expected, mainly due to cracking.
The Irish Farmers Association (IFA) reports that consumption and sales, particularly of packing-grade potatoes, continue to improve. Overall demand has remained steady in recent weeks, which has supported trade.
Across Europe, lifting progress for processing varieties is estimated at 40–50%, with irrigation still taking place in the driest regions before harvest.
According to the IFA, European market conditions remain stable, with large volumes of potatoes diverted to anaerobic digestion systems and livestock feed. Some contracts are delayed, and rejection rates are increasing. The IFA added that there is no demand for free-buy potatoes from buyers.
Lifting progress for table potatoes is more advanced, estimated at around 70% in France. Markets across Europe are operating almost entirely under contract arrangements, according to the IFA.
Source: Agriland
