Potato Variety Trial as a Step of a Potato Breeding Program

A potato varietal trial, the equivalent of the final step in a potato breeding and testing program was conducted in 1972 at the Farmington Experimental Sub-station, Farmington, Utah. The test consisted of twelve named varieties and two numbered selections. This study measured the yielding capacity of new potato varieties and selections during one growing season at one location in Utah. Yields were compared with those of the older accepted varieties grown in the state and used as control or standard varieties in the varietal trial. This study provided valuable information for growers and processors in determining the suitability of these varieties for production in Utah. Data was obtained on total yield; yield and percentage of U.S. No.1 potatoes over and under 3 inches in diameter or 10 ounces in weight; U.S. No.2 and culls and small potatoes under 1 7/8 inches in diameter; the incidence of hollow heart and internal discoloration and chipping quality of certain varieties. LaRouge and Chieftain were significantly higher than Red Pontiac in yield of U.S. No.1 potatoes. LaChipper, Abnaki, ND 7196-18, Platte and Shurchip were significantly higher than Raritan, Norchip and Kennebec. The incidence of hollow heart in Abnaki, Raritan, LaChipper and ND 6925- 13 Russ was significantly higher than the other ten varieties in the test. The percentage of internal discoloration in selection ND 6925-13 Russ was signifi cantly higher than all other varieties tested. Norchip and selection ND 7196-18 produced light colored chips on both chipping dates