Rains early in North Carolina's sweet potato planting season caused problems for the state's growers. Those problems have included decreased acreage and fewer sweet potatoes when compared to last season.“Rains came early in the planting season, in May and June,” said Sue Johnson-Langdon, executive director of the North Carolina SweetPotato Commission. “Therefore, less acres were planted than intended.” Additionally, harvesting was delayed for about a month, and the combination of factors led to a crop that was lighter than last year's by about 20 percent. But Johnson-Langdon pointed out that, despite generally smaller sizes this season, quality has been better, and less volume has made for prices trending higher than last season.
“Every year has its weather challenges,” said Johnson-Langdon. “Over the years, North Carolina's sweet potato farmers have withstood hundreds of potentially damaging weather events and have overcome the circumstances. This year is no different.”
For more information:
North Carolina SweetPotato Commission
+1 919 894 1067
