India is the second largest producer of potatoes in the world. Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab are major producers. The ICAR Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla, provides guidance to farmers. Here is a potato farming guide for the plains.
Planting time
In the Indo Gangetic plains, the main crop is planted from about mid October to mid November, when temperatures fall. Very early planting in hot soil can cause seed rot, while late planting shortens the season.
Seed tubers
- Use certified, disease free seed tubers from reliable sources.
- Medium sized whole tubers are often preferred.
- Allow seed to sprout before planting for faster emergence.
- Treat seed as recommended to prevent soil and tuber borne diseases.
Varieties
CPRI has released many Kufri varieties suited to different regions and uses, such as table potatoes and processing for chips. Choose one recommended for your area.
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Field preparation and spacing
Potato needs loose, well drained soil. Plough well and make ridges. Rows are commonly about 60 cm apart, with tubers placed about 20 cm apart, though spacing varies with seed size and variety.
Fertiliser
Use doses based on a soil test or Soil Health Card. Potato needs good amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Apply part of the nitrogen at planting and the rest at earthing up.
Earthing up
Earthing up, or covering the base of plants with soil, is done about 25 to 30 days after planting. It protects tubers from light, which causes greening, and from pests.
Irrigation
Give the first light irrigation soon after planting and then at regular intervals. Avoid flooding the ridges.
Late blight
Late blight is the most serious disease, especially in cool, humid and foggy weather. Watch for dark patches on leaves. Follow CPRI and state advisories for timely protective sprays. CPRI also runs a blight forecasting system.
Storage and selling
Most potatoes are stored in cold storages before sale. Check market prices on Agmarknet or eNAM, and the cold storage rates in your area before deciding when to sell.
Advice for farmers
Before sowing, selling or storing your crop, check the latest information with your district agriculture department, Krishi Vigyan Kendra or mandi committee.
Bottom line
Healthy seed, timely planting, earthing up and a close watch for late blight are the keys to a good potato crop.
Source / स्रोत: ICAR Central Potato Research Institute, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Agmarknet
