EEUU: 2019 potato yields are at or below average, but quality isn’t impacted
As potato harvest starts to wrap up across the Northwest, Chris Voigt, the Executive Director of the Washington state Potato Commission,….
….has stated that with roughly 20% of the crop remaining in the ground across central Washington, and 25% still in ground in western Washington, the yields are at or just below average. However, he was quick to note 2019 is one of the best quality crops he’s seen in years.
“Again, it was perfect growing conditions. You know, what can really affect quality is swings in temperature it will go from super-hot scorching days over 100 degrees, down low and then throw in a lot of moisture. That can really mess with the quality of the crop. But we had really consistent temperatures and growing conditions through the year. So the crop is outstanding.”
Voigt noted that the area was spared extremely cold weather and snow a few weeks ago, which can’t be said for producers in Idaho, Montana and the Dakotas. He said weather issues have pushed up demand for fresh potatoes, creating opportunities for local growers.
However, Voigt said Northwest growers could be hurt by that Arctic weather, next spring. He said there are concerns about seed potatoes going into 2020.
Source: washingtonagnetwork.com
Fuente: https://www.freshplaza.com/article/9157213/2019-potato-yields-are-at-or-below-average-but-quality-isn-t-impacted/
