End of Season Review

August 22, 2015 Posted by David Linton

AHDB have now released their revised potato planting area which shows a bigger drop than was first thought.  The decrease in area is now thought to be 7.8%, up from 6.6%. 

Maris Piper remains the dominant variety, accounting for 15% of the planted area although this variety still suffered a 2.5% drop in area.  This along with the cold spring has contributed to a more bullish market for growers who are looking to recover some of the losses made on the free-buy market over the last couple of years.

It’s really important that growers receive a fair return for their crop in what is an incredibly risky market that requires a lot of long-term investment.  The entire supply chain needs to be aware of its responsibility to ensure the viability of British potato growers who produce a top quality product that is held dear to the hearts of the British public.

The nights are starting to draw in now and our thoughts are moving towards lifting for stores.  Our desiccation programme started this week with the aim of starting the harvester at the end of September.  It’s at this point that you need an eye for detail to make sure the right crops go into store and everything is treated with kidd gloves to avoid damage which is always more difficult in the cold and rain.  Here’s hoping the weather stays as warm and sunny as this week!

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