The Scientific and Practical Center of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus researched six potato varieties from Belarus in Nicaragua. Researchers especially noticed that growing these varieties in tropical temperatures shortened their harvest cycle.
The adaptation of 4 of the varieties to the climatic and soil conditions in the municipality of Estelí was achieved, obtaining the following preliminary results:
The production and harvest times of the Ragneda variety went from 120 to 90 days (30 days less). It has resistance to the pests that affect the crop and has potential yields of up to 600 quintals per manzana (200 quintals more than other varieties). This potato has a creamy and soft pulp that can be quickly cooked.
The Briz variety is also harvested 30 days faster, as its production time went from 120 days to 90 days. It has a yield potential of up to 595 quintals per manzana (195 quintals more than other varieties), and has a smooth texture, with good characteristics for the pickling and frying industry.
The Yanca variety stands out for having a short production cycle, as it is harvested in 100 days (20 days less). Its potential yield is up to 471 quintals per manzana (71 quintals more than other varieties). This potato has fewer eyes in its body and the ones it has are superficial, which makes it easier to peel when cooking.
The Zarnitsa red potato variety is also harvested in 100 days, shortening production times by 20 days. The most relevant feature is that it has a yield of up to 580 quintals per manzana (180 quintals more than other varieties).
Likewise, researchers are working at the Estelí tissue laboratory to multiply healthy plants of the Uladar and Skarb varieties. Once this is achieved, research plots will be established in experimentation farms of producers in the departments of Jinotega, Matagalpa, Nueva Segovia, and other areas of Estelí where researchers will carry out studies to find out how long the potatoes will last in different storage environments.
Source: el19digital.com