Growing techniques of potato from true seed in Finland

Abstract

The suitability of three production methods for potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) from true seed (TPS)were studied in field conditions at the University of Helsinki, Department of Horticulture. The production methods were direct field sowing, planting 4-week old seedlings raised in peat pots and planting seedlings and covering them with floating polypropylene mulch. The cultivars were Explorer and Pan American Seed Company varieties numbers 2928 and 4000. Also tested were the cultivars 2909, 2928, 3018, 4000, 4016, 4048 and 4147. Floating mulch promoted vegetative growth, but also promoted the propagation and spreading of Phytophtora infestans spores. The best yield was obtained with pot-raised seedlings without mulching (3.38 kg/m2), the second best yield with mulching (2.69 kg/m2) and the lowest yield with field-sowing (2.33 kg/m2). More small tubers were obtained under floating mulch than without mulching. Of the seven Pan American Seed Company cultivars tested, 4047 and 4016 gave the best yield, 4.1 and 4.0 kg/m2. In sensory tests none of the three cultivars (3018, 4047 and Explorer) proved to be better than or equal to the taste of the common vegetatively propagated Finnish potato variety called Pito.