At first it seemed as though water-rot was occurring in a diagonal swath through the Southwest of the Netherlands. Now it is known that the rot has been found in other places as well, as a result of large rain storms. We are also seeing rot in places where less rain has fallen. The intensity of the rainfall has most likely given rise to a dense flow of lenticels, which has resulted in asphyxia, says Nedato (a potato cooperative) on their website.
Next week we will examine in more detail the issues surrounding this situation in a newsletter. The usual newsletter on quality is not appropriate at this time. Attention must be paid to optimally harvesting a difficult product and preserving what can be preserved. A great deal is being demanded from the growers. Disappointment is high. We are dealing with it and trying to keep spirits up," says the potato cooperation.
200 farmers have put the information they learned at the meetings (organized by DLV Plant) last week to use. The meetings were well attended and there were many questions asked. The growers were informed about proper potato drying. The growers are particularly concerned as to whether everything will be fine. The meetings primarily focused on using heaters for drying the potatoes.
The most important conclusions:
- Avoid torrential cones in the barn and level it all off
- Store the potatoes below 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Use heaters to keep the potatoes at the right temperature when the outside air is cold
- Frequently check the process