1. Ecological Requirements
Soils: Loamy and sandy loamy soils that are well-drained, well-aerated, high in organic matter, and have a pH range of 5-6.5 are ideal for growing Irish potatoes.
Temperature: Best yields are achieved when average daily temperatures range between 16 to 20°C. Temperatures below 10°C and above 30°C severely restrict tuber formation. Planting at high temperatures causes delayed tuber initiation.
Rainfall: The crop thrives in areas with an average annual rainfall of 850-1400mm.
Altitude: Irish potatoes grow best at altitudes ranging between 1500 and 2800 meters above sea level.
2. Land preparation
To prepare the soil for maximum productivity, at least two ploughings along with regular harrowing and rolling are often performed.
3. Planting
Irish potatoes are typically grown from seed potatoes (tubers or pieces of tubers). These tubers should be disease-free and well-sprouted to ensure the highest possible yield.
4. Procedure
Create ridges and hilly rows on the prepared ground.
Combine soil with manure and DAP.
Plant the seeds 12 inches apart, then cover with 3 inches of soil.
The soil should be moist but not too wet.
Germination normally occurs 21-27 days after planting.
5. Spacing
Furrows are dug 75cm apart, with a seed spacing of roughly 30cm.
6. Ridging/Earthing Up
This entails mounding soil between the rows around the crop’s main stem. It keeps the crop upright, keeps pests like the potato tuber moth away from the tubers, and helps to prevent weed growth.
7. Irrigation
Irish potatoes are particularly sensitive to water stress, especially in the middle and late stages of growth, which can result in deformed tubers and low yields. To support optimal production, the moisture content of the soil should be kept reasonably high.
8. Harvesting & Post-Harvest Handling
The maturity period varies by variety and can be identified by the yellowing of the crop’s leaves .
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