Wet weather causing potato store problems in the UK

Rain has hampered harvesting progress for potato growers in many regions, with the focus being on moving crops from the field even if they were not destined for long-term storage, by using temporary facilities and boxes, says the Potato Council.

In some parts of the South lifting is estimated to be two to three weeks behind schedule. Crops are of variable yield and quality, with some wireworm damage now evident and the possibility of slugs also becoming a problem if wet weather continues.

In the East, wet lifting conditions have continued to limit movement of crops off heavier soils. However, on lighter sandy land, lifting has recommenced.

The first signs of storage problems are being revealed in crops lifted during wet weather, with the onset of rot resulting in premature movement and washing of some stores.

In the North East, where rainfall was lighter last week, progress with lifting has been good, particularly on processing crops grown on lighter soils.

In the West heavy rain has affected all areas but lifting has resumed on all but the heaviest land.

In Scotland, growers have been moving to lighter soils whenever possible to avoid wet patches in fields. Crops have been moved mainly to storage, with yields described as average but below those of last year.