25/06/2024
🆂🅴🅴🅳 ᴅᴇᴠᴇʟᴏp
1. Selection of Seed Potatoes
a. Certified Seed Selection:
- Choose certified seed potatoes from reputable suppliers. Certified seeds are tested and free from diseases and pests.
- Look for varieties that are well-suited to your local climate and soil conditions.
b. Characteristics of Good Seed Potatoes:
- Medium-sized tubers (3.8 to 6.4 cm in diameter).
- Firm, with no signs of disease, rot, or damage.
- Presence of multiple eyes (buds), which will sprout into new plants.
2. Pre-sprouting (Chitting)
a. Purpose of Chitting:
- Encourages the development of strong sprouts before planting.
- Helps in early emergence and improves crop uniformity.
b. Steps in Chitting:
- Place seed potatoes in a well-lit, cool, and frost-free area for 4-6 weeks.
- Position them in trays or egg cartons with the eyes facing upwards.
- Maintain a temperature of 10-15°C.
- Monitor for the development of sturdy, green sprouts.
3. Cutting and Treatment
a. Cutting Seed Potatoes:
- Cut larger seed potatoes into smaller pieces, each with at least one or two eyes.
- Ensure each piece is around 42-56 grams.
b. Healing:
- Allow the cut pieces to heal by placing them in a warm (15-21°C), humid environment for a few days.
- This forms a protective layer over the cut surfaces, reducing the risk of rot and disease.
c. Treatment:
- Optionally, treat the cut seed pieces with a fungicide to protect against soil-borne diseases.
4. Soil Preparation
a. Soil Testing:
- Test soil for pH, nutrient levels, and organic matter content.
- Ideal pH for potatoes is between 5.0 and 5.5.
b. Soil Conditioning:
- Add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure.
- Ensure good drainage as potatoes are susceptible to waterlogging.
5. Planting
a. Timing:
- Plant seed potatoes after the last frost date when the soil temperature reaches at least 10°C (50°F).
b. Plant