Research of midseason potato varieties suitable for organic growing

An essential issue in organic potato production is choosing the right varieties, because varieties grown under conventional conditions may not always be suitable for organic production. The choice of variety was based solely on farmers’ experience, as research results were not available. Because of the lack of reliable information, ÖMKi initiated an on-farm research program for organic potato production in 2012. 13 mid-season potato varieties with certain degree of resistance to relevant diseases or abiotic stresses were tested on 22 organic farms (2012-2015) in close cooperation with the growers. Quantitative and qualitative parameters were assessed at harvest. The average yield was 2.19-3.45 kg/m² (21-34 t/ha). Among seven qualitative parameters the most relevant quality problems were: Streptomyces and Rhizoctonia infection and damage by insect pests. No significant differences could be shown among the varieties regarding the assessed parameters, but disease resistance often differed compared to the descriptions provided by the seed tuber distributors. Besides summarizing and sharing research results, regular meetings and field trips were arranged for farmers. As an indirect result of the on-farm research program the communication was highly improved among the participants and a well-working organic potato workgroup was formed