Specialists of the FSBSI “Tatar Science and Research Institute for Agriculture” inform about the rules to plant potato

Specialists from the FSBSI “Tatar Science and Research Institute for Agriculture” note that potato yield in a greater degree depends on the quality of planting material as opposed to many other crops. A great damage is afflicted to potato by viruses. Thus, if a variety is viraemic its crop yield will not exceed 100-150 dt/ha.

On household plots, potato is usually planted on one and the same place within several years, that is why the soil there starts containing weeds specific for this crop. Pathogenic germs are killed partially owing to regular organic fertilizer treatment. Nevertheless, one of the most effective weedkilling approaches is field rotation. At potato cultivation on rather vast territories, it is recommended to stick to the so-called “4-field crop rotation”, for example, potato – grains – pea – rape. This way weeds are killed because the crops enrich soil with organic elements and improve its structure. On small household plots, it is recommended to try hard to rotate different crops. One more effective method is to sow sinapis (mustard) or winter rye after potato harvesting.

Potato greensprouting facilitates growth of bulbs and enables to receive the yield within a shorter period of time, which in its turn reduces the risk of contamination with diseases and viruses. Deciding to plant potato, it is necessary to take into consideration the state of the soil and its temperature – it should be about 7-8 degrees Celsius. It is not recommended to plant potato into cold soil. The most favourable conditions for potato planting in the republic are usually in the second decade of May.

Mineral fertilizers for potato are applied this way: to receive 10 tons of potato it is necessary to apply 60 kg of nitrogen, 20 kg of phosphorus and 80 kg of potassium. The crop is also susceptible to foliage application, owing to which the crop yield increases, as well as the resistance to diseases and weeds, and the quality of bulbs improves. Beside this, foliage application increases plant resistance under unfavourable conditions such as draught and high temperatures.

In 10-14 days after potato planting, it is necessary to harrow fields. It is important to take time by the forelock because during harrowing up to 80% of weeds could be destroyed.