Potato

The potato is an annual herbaceous plant of the Solanaceae family, originating in South America and widely distributed throughout temperate zones. Farmers in Greece primarily cultivate it in Tripoli, Ilia, Xanthi, Drama, Lassithi, and Kozani for both fresh consumption and industrial use. Commercial varieties are selected based on earliness, tuber shape, and disease resistance. Potato cultivation has a high yield potential (2,500–5,500 kg/ha) and requires a systematic approach to nutrition, adequate plant protection, and efficient water management. Northern European countries (the Netherlands and France) primarily import seed potatoes.

Botanical characteristics

The potato (Solanum tuberosum) is an herbaceous, perennial plant of the Solanaceae family, cultivated as an annual for its underground tubers (swollen stolons), which serve as edible and reproductive organs. It has compound leaves and fleshy, branched shoots. As a short-day plant, it prefers a photoperiod of 12–14 hours and reproduces vegetatively through the formation of tubers. Its shallow root system (30–40 cm) requires well-drained, aerated soils, while the tubers are sensitive to light, which causes greening and the production of toxic solanine.

 

Physiological characteristics

The potato grows rapidly and completes its growing cycle in 90–130 days, depending on the variety and planting season. Its root system is shallow, making it sensitive to drought and sudden temperature changes. The tubers are not roots but modified underground shoots (stems) that form after the emergence of 8–10 leaves. Photosynthesis peaks at temperatures of 20–25°C, while tuber formation is most intensive at 15–20°C. High temperatures (>30°C) inhibit tuberization, while temperatures below 10°C slow down germination. Day length, nutrition, and moisture availability regulate the plant’s balance between vegetative growth and tuberization.

Morphological characteristics

The potato plant is an herbaceous plant that grows 30–80 cm tall. The plant has compound leaves arranged alternately, and its stems are angular and partially hairy. Flowering begins approximately 30–45 days after planting, depending on the variety, and the flowers have white, violet, or pink petals. The fruits (usually useless) are small green capsules with seeds, while the commercial product is the underground tubers, which develop on the stolons. The tubers are spherical to elongated in shape, with various skin and flesh colors. Temperature and humidity influence how the buds (eyes), arranged in a spiral pattern, germinate. The root system primarily develops within the top 30 cm of the soil.

Reproductive characteristics

The potato reproduces asexually, with seed potatoes bearing developed eyes. We recommend pre-germinating the potato for 15–20 days in a place with diffused light and a temperature of 12–15°C before planting. Planting occurs when the soil temperature at a depth of 10 cm surpasses 10°C and the humidity remains moderate. The planting depth ranges from 6 to 10 cm, with planting distances of 70 cm between rows and 25–30 cm within the row. Depending on the density and variety, approximately 200–250 kg of potato seed per acre is required. The stolons develop from the lower mesocarp points and bear the tubers, which grow gradually with the supply of nutrients and water.

Climate requirements

Potatoes are a cool-climate crop. Below, we will look at the climatic requirements for cultivation.

Temperature

The ideal temperatures for germination are 15–20°C, for tuber development 16–22°C, and for photosynthesis 20–25°C. Temperatures exceeding 30°C during the tuberization phase reduce yield and lower the quality of the tubers. Conversely, frosts below 0°C destroy the above-ground portion of the plant.

Rainfall

The adequacy, distribution, and intensity of rainfall have a critical impact on potato cultivation. Mild and frequent rainfall favors growth, while excessive or uneven moisture causes waterlogging, reduced aeration, and diseases. In wet areas, resistant varieties and preventive measures are required.

Sunlight

Potatoes have high light requirements, with a favorable day length of 12 to 14 hours of daylight. Intense sunshine promotes photosynthesis, but sufficient moisture is required to avoid stress.

Wind

Potatoes benefit from mild winds, which improve ventilation and reduce the risk of disease. However, strong winds cause damage to plants, increase stress, and increase the need for irrigation. Protection from strong winds is recommended for better growth and yield.

Moisture

Potatoes require stable moisture, especially from tuber formation until shortly before harvest, with a total water requirement of ~500 mm. Ideal relative humidity is 60–75%, as higher levels and poor ventilation favor late blight. Lack of moisture causes stress and reduces yield and quality, while adequate drainage is essential.

Soil requirements

Potatoes thrive in sandy-to-sandy loam soils that are well-drained, have excellent air permeability, and have a depth of more than 60 cm. The ideal pH range is between 5.5 and 6.5; soils with a pH greater than 7 are prone to scab. Maintain organic matter above 2% to ensure optimal soil structure and moisture retention. Avoid soil compaction caused by improper irrigation or heavy machinery, as it limits tuber formation. Perform deep tillage and apply manure or compost (2–3 tons per acre) before planting. If necessary, leveling or reshaping ridges is performed to improve drainage. Crop rotation is preferred to avoid soil depletion and pathogen accumulation.

Soil preparation

Potatoes require light, well-drained soil (pH 5.5–6.5) with a sandy-loamy texture and low salinity. Heavy, wet, or clayey soils favor the growth of rot and the development of malformed tubers. Preparation begins with deep plowing (30–40 cm) and harrowing to incorporate organic matter and create a loose structure. Farmers use well-rotted manure (2–4 t/ha), while they avoid fresh manure. They also apply disinfection, such as solarization, to contaminated soils. Ridges (70–80 cm) ≥20 cm high ensure good aeration and drainage. Planting occurs when the soil temperature exceeds 10–12°C, with 25–30 cm of space between plants.

Basic Fertilization

Basic fertilization is applied during soil preparation and depends on the results of the soil analysis. In sandy soils and areas with high leaching, slow-release fertilizers or fertilizers with protected elements (e.g., ESN, urea inhibitors) are used. Manure is applied 1–2 months before planting to reduce the risk of burns. Care should be taken with phosphorus, as it is essential for tillering and early tuber formation. Growers establish basic fertilization as the foundation of nutrient management and enhance it with drip irrigation.

  • Nitrogen (Ν)

    Nitrogen is essential for germination, foliage volume, and tuber development. Excess nitrogen delays harvesting and degrades the skin.

  • Phosphorus (Ρ)

    Phosphorus enhances rooting and early tuberization. It helps to form stolons.

  • Potassium (Κ)

    Potassium is crucial for size, storage, and stress resistance. It also regulates the water balance of the tubers.

  • Calcium (Ca)

    Calcium strengthens the skin’s cohesion and reduces physiological disorders (e.g., dark spots).

  • Magnesium (Mg)

    Magnesium is essential for photosynthesis and the storage of sugars.

  • Sulfur (S)

    Sulfur contributes to protein synthesis and the quality of tubers.

  • Boron (B)

    Boron is a critical element for tissue development and the prevention of tuber cracking.

  • Zinc (Zn)

    Zinc enhances tuber differentiation and resistance.

  • Iron (Fe)

    Iron is essential for chlorophyll production, particularly in soils with a pH greater than 7.

  • Manganese (Mg)

    Manganese aids metabolic function and activates enzymes.

  • Copper (Cu):

    Copper plays a vital role in defense against pathogens and skin modification.

  • Molybdenum (Mo):

    Molybdenum supports the reduction of nitrates and is vital in acidic soils.

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Foliar applications

Foliar fertilization in potatoes helps to combat or prevent nutrient deficiencies and to strengthen the plant during periods of stress (temperatures, droughts, pathogens). Pre-flowering application of boron improves tuber formation and uniformity. Magnesium is applied during periods of intense photosynthesis to enhance starch production, while calcium improves skin firmness and reduces post-harvest losses. Applications of iron, manganese, and zinc are beneficial in alkaline soils or for plants exhibiting visible symptoms of deficiency.
Farmers should apply foliar applications early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when evaporation conditions are limited. We recommend using pure, fully water-soluble formulations, and it’s also beneficial to spray in combination with amino acids or biostimulants during stressful periods. Farmers must prohibit application during full bloom or when leaves are wet from rain or dew. Foliar applications do not replace basic fertilization but act as a supplement, especially in soils with low trace element content or in intensively farmed systems.

Drip irrigation

Drip irrigation in potatoes is typically applied through drip lines and adapted to the plant’s phenological stages.
During the early stages of development (0–30 days), nitrogen and phosphorus are applied to promote shoot growth and tillering. The supply of potassium increases from flowering to tuber enlargement (30–70 days), which is crucial for yield, starch concentration, and shelf life. Fertilization is usually carried out every 2–3 days, with low doses and a gradual increase. The conductivity of the solution (EC) should remain below 2.0 dS/m, especially in sandy soils. Growers ideally adjust the solution pH to 5.8–6.5 to maximize nutrient absorption. Fertilizers should be of high purity, chlorine-free, and completely soluble in water. They regularly alternate sulfate, nitrate, and phosphate compounds to maintain balanced nutrition and prevent imbalances. About 10–15 days before harvest, they gradually reduce the water supply to harden the skin and minimize the risk of rotting during storage.

 

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The doses and growth stages mentioned are indicative and are always adjusted according to the recommendations of the agricultural consultant. Because rational fertilization is always assessed in relation to:

  • Expected yield
  • Soil characteristics
  • Planting density
  • Environmental conditions
  • Growth stage
  • Plant vigor
  • Cultivation duration
  • Hybrid

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