Guatemala: Potato varieties with high commercial quality have been identified in San Marcos.
During the harvest day, held on July 7, 2026, the introduced varieties Jolene, Levante and Napoleon were analyzed, comparing them with the Loman variety.
In San Marcos, potato farmers had the opportunity to learn the results of an evaluation of new varieties with commercial potential, such as Jolene and Levante, compared to the local variety Loman. The objective was to determine their yield and quality under the area’s conditions.
This assessment was developed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA), together with the company Agri-export, by establishing a demonstration plot in the Antonian Farmers Association with the participation of 30 producers.
The trial began in late February 2026, when Agri-export imported and distributed planting material. The demonstration plot was established on March 10th in an area of 441 square meters, dedicating 110 square meters to each variety being evaluated.
During the production cycle, the varieties received the usual agronomic management of local producers, in order to observe their behavior under practical conditions.
The harvest took place on July 7, 2026, and the Jolene, Levante, and Napoleon varieties were analyzed along with Loman. Jolene showed the best commercial yield, reaching 43.31 quintals per cuerda, of which 32.80 quintals were of first quality, standing out for its physical and organoleptic characteristics.
Levante emerged as the second best option, registering a yield of 44 quintals per cuerda and 29.30 quintals of first quality.
The validation of these varieties provides valuable technical information so that producers have new crop options that respond to market demands and strengthen potato production in rural areas.
Fuente: guatemala.gob.gt
