Potato News Today

Latest North American News

‘One drop at a time’, part 4: Why drip remains an outsider in North American potato country

Potato growers across North America face increasing pressure to optimize water usage, with alternatives like drip irrigation and centre pivots vying for efficacy. Drip irrigation is recognized for precision but competes with well-established centre pivots that suit large-scale operations. The suitability of each system varies regionally, influenced by factors like soil type and water availability. Factors such as operational efficiency, costs, and environmental impacts must be weighed to determine the best irrigation approach for specific situations.

Latest European News

Can a digital twin support potato irrigation without permanent field sensors?

AGORÀ, developed by VAIMEE, helps potato growers optimize irrigation decisions by integrating crop, soil, weather, and management data. This decision-support system updates daily and can predict irrigation needs for up to three days ahead, relying on existing field data. A 2026 assessment in Italy compared AGORÀ’s recommendations with actual irrigation events, exploring various configurations to enhance timing, while keeping the grower involved in final decisions. The study didn’t assess the impact on crop yield or quality.

Smart Farming

‘One drop at a time’, part 1: What drip irrigation can offer the potato crop

The article discusses the benefits and challenges of drip irrigation in potato production. While it allows precise water and nutrient delivery, effective use relies on proper management and design. Maintaining stable soil moisture is critical during tuber initiation and bulking, as both under and over-watering can negatively impact yields. Different soil types affect the wetting pattern, necessitating tailored approaches. Fertigation enhances nutrient management, but precision is vital to avoid errors.

Latest news stories from around the World

Can a digital twin support potato irrigation without permanent field sensors?

September 8, 2026

Holding the ground: Why soil retention is becoming a potato production priority

Potato production faces significant soil loss due to runoff, wind, and harvesting, which impacts fertility and future yields. A 2025 incident in Somerset highlighted this issue when a grower faced over £40,000 in costs due to soil erosion. Effective soil management strategies include understanding field conditions and using cover crops, but growers often underestimate these losses, which diminish soil quality and agricultural sustainability. Soil retention must be prioritized alongside crop production.

September 8, 2026

El Niño warning intensifies as India’s potato season approaches

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) predicts nearly 100% probability that the current El Niño event will persist into early 2027, raising concerns for potato production in India amid a deepening monsoon deficit. While the impact of El Niño varies regionally, farmers may face increased irrigation needs and potential crop stress due to below-normal rainfall and above-average temperatures, heightening production risks without confirming loss projections.

September 8, 2026

Same variety, different crop: Why seed-tuber age deserves more attention

Physiological age significantly affects seed tuber performance, but current measurement methods for growers are inadequate. Although seed tubers may appear similar, their internal developmental conditions can lead to varying crop outcomes. A 2026 scientific review highlights the lack of fast, reliable tests and suggests that physiological readiness should complement traditional seed quality assessments. The industry must better understand and manage the biological condition of seed for optimal growth.

September 6, 2026

‘One drop at a time’, part 4: Why drip remains an outsider in North American potato country

September 5, 2026

‘One drop at a time’, part 3: When the irrigation system learns to listen

Potato growers are increasingly utilizing sensors, weather data, and automated controls to enhance drip irrigation efficiency. However, the synthesis of these technologies with sound agronomy is essential for optimal decision-making. Recent trials in the UK illustrate the importance of precise irrigation management tailored to soil conditions. While automation offers promise, human judgment remains crucial in managing water usage amid changing climates, ensuring sustainable practices.

September 5, 2026

‘One drop at a time’, part 2: Can drip irrigation work on a commercial potato farm?

Drip irrigation has shown potential to reduce water use and increase potato yield in Britain, but its successful implementation involves careful engineering and integration with existing farming practices. A trial indicated a 25% reduction in water use and an 18% yield increase, yet results may vary by context. Effective management, precise tape placement, and continuous monitoring are crucial for maximizing benefits while addressing the operational challenges faced by growers.

September 5, 2026

‘One drop at a time’, part 1: What drip irrigation can offer the potato crop

September 5, 2026

Drought, deluge and disease: How El Niño is reshaping the global potato outlook

The 2026-27 El Niño is rapidly intensifying, posing diverse threats to global potato production. Regions like India and Peru face risks from drought and flooding, while Europe experiences severe crop damage from heat and dryness, with uncertain attribution to El Niño. Each region’s unique climatic conditions necessitate careful monitoring of weather patterns and risk management strategies to mitigate agricultural stress and potential market disruptions.

September 2, 2026

Potato growers welcome new USDA protections against potato wart

Potato growers are supportive of new USDA regulations designed to combat potato wart from Prince Edward Island. National Potato Council CEO Kam Quarles highlighted the absence of the disease in the U.S. and the potential risks it poses. He also touched on anti-dumping orders affecting U.S. potatoes in British Columbia and the resulting trade tensions with Canada, potentially increasing costs for growers. Quarles expressed hope for Congress to pass the Farm Bill by year-end.

September 1, 2026

GB Potatoes at four: What are the challenges and priorities?

GB Potatoes, established four years ago following the dissolution of AHDB Potatoes, serves as an essential representative for potato growers in the UK, according to Emma Gillbard in Farmers Weekly. Chief executive Scott Walker highlights the organization’s critical role in filling the void left in industry advocacy. With robust support from the supply chain, GB Potatoes aims to expand its membership to enhance its influence and effectiveness.

September 1, 2026

Scotts Precision Manufacturing to showcase Evolution Separator at PotatoEurope 2026

Scotts Precision Manufacturing will showcase its flagship Evolution Separator at PotatoEurope 2026, hosted near Hanover, Germany, on September 9-10. The machine is designed for efficient crop cleaning, removing debris while minimizing damage. Celebrating its 1,000th unit sold, Scotts emphasizes the Evolution’s versatility across various crops. This event, focusing on practical agricultural technology, allows attendees to engage with Scotts at Stand GD40 to explore its applications further.

September 1, 2026

UK drought tightens its grip on potatoes, but scale of crop losses remains uncertain

England and Wales are facing an exceptional drought that significantly impacts potato growers, causing reduced tuber sizes, heightened irrigation costs, and challenging harvesting conditions. Despite these pressures, there is no definitive national crop-loss estimate, highlighting regional variations in drought severity. While diminished yields are expected, the potato market is not collapsing; instead, it is under pressure with potential upward price movements and concerns regarding quality and tuber sizes.

August 28, 2026

McCain’s inaugural global ‘Spud Report’ finds fries crossing cultures, generations and borders

A McCain Foods survey of over 12,000 adults from 11 countries revealed that French fries are the most favored potato dish globally. The Spud Report highlighted fries’ emotional significance as comfort food linked to happiness and social interactions. Findings showed cultural variations in consumption patterns, with fries seen as snacks in India and China, while other nations viewed them as meal accompaniments. McCain intends to implement regenerative agriculture practices by 2030, linking consumer preferences to farming practices.

August 28, 2026

Longer potato rotations linked to improved tuber quality and stronger short-term returns in US trials

New research indicates that extending potato crop rotations can enhance tuber quality and profitability, based on a four-year study across various U.S. locations. While longer rotations performed better economically, results for other practices like fumigation and biofumigation were inconsistent. The findings suggest that potato growers may improve soil and crop health without sacrificing quality, but economic outcomes may vary and need careful evaluation over multiple growing seasons.

August 27, 2026

From field checks to phone alerts: Gujarat woman potato farmer embraces digital decision-making

Priyankaben Chiragbhai Patel’s journey in northern Gujarat showcases the integration of digital tools in potato farming, emphasizing women’s evolving roles in agricultural management. With support from HyFarm, she utilizes mobile apps and sensors for irrigation and crop monitoring across her family’s 30-acre farm. Her experience illustrates the shift towards data-driven decisions, highlighting the importance of timely information while still valuing traditional farming practices.

August 27, 2026

Haith and GRIMME to exhibit together at PotatoEurope 2026 event

Two prominent names in the potato industry, Haith and GRIMME, will co-exhibit at Potato Europe for the first time on September 9-10 in Springe, Germany. Haith will showcase its extensive range of potato handling machinery, emphasizing its quality and manufacturing standards. The collaboration aims to highlight the synergy between both companies, providing comprehensive solutions for the potato industry from planting to packing, fostering innovation and sustainability.

August 27, 2026

The seed looked clean. The test said otherwise: Oregon study exposes a hidden potato disease pathway

A nine-year study from Oregon State University revealed that seed potatoes appearing healthy can carry hidden pathogens, including the powdery scab pathogen and potato mop-top virus, without showing visible symptoms. The study suggests visual inspections alone are inadequate for detecting these risks, advocating for targeted molecular testing to enhance seed certification and protect agricultural fields from hidden threats. Findings carry implications for the broader potato industry.

August 27, 2026

PapaDX brings AI-assisted potato crop diagnosis and weather alerts to the field

Aconcagua Digital has launched PapaDX, a mobile application for potato growers that analyzes crop photographs to diagnose health issues using AI technology. Released in August 2026, it offers confidence ratings and management suggestions based on identified diseases, pests, and nutrient deficiencies. In addition to visual assessments, PapaDX provides weather alerts to predict disease risk. While a useful tool, it should not replace professional consultation for accurate diagnoses.

August 25, 2026

Why does potato breeding really take so long? The genetics behind a 15-year problem

The potato breeding process typically spans about 15 years due to various biological and operational bottlenecks. Factors such as the complex genetics of highly heterozygous potatoes, the vegetative multiplication of commercial varieties, and the intricacies of evaluating traits contribute to the timeline. Innovations like genotyping, diploid breeding, and fixation-restitution methods aim to streamline these processes, enhancing efficiency and potentially shortening the time taken to deliver new varieties to growers.

August 24, 2026

French potato production could fall 23% as drought and heat cut yields: Lowest yields in more than 30 years

French potato growers are facing the lowest average yield in over 30 years due to extreme weather conditions, with projections showing a 14% decrease in yield for 2026. Factors such as heatwaves, drought, and reduced planted area could result in a 23% decline in production. Concerns about contract fulfillment and a potential economic loss of €400 million have prompted calls for government assistance. The outcome remains uncertain as harvest results become clear.

August 24, 2026

‘The cost of being late’: Ecuador’s zebra chip warning to the global potato industry

What Ecuador’s experience with zebra chip can teach the global potato industry about preparedness, diagnosis and the human cost of being late. By Lukie Pieterse, Editor/Publisher of Potato News Today On 21 August, a European potato research project published an account from Ecuador that deserves attention well beyond Europe. It was not a story about a laboratory breakthrough or a[Read More…]

August 24, 2026

The potato paradox: Why ‘low sugar’ is not the same as ‘low GI’

Potatoes contain little simple sugar, but labeling them as “low sugar” can mislead consumers regarding their blood glucose impact. The primary carbohydrate in potatoes is starch, which can significantly raise blood glucose levels after digestion. Various factors like processing, cooking methods, and potato variety influence glycaemic response. Clear, precise labeling is essential in the potato industry to help consumers understand the nutritional implications and avoid misconceptions related to terms like “low sugar” or “low GI.”

August 21, 2026

Help us share the stories shaping the global potato industry

Potato News Today invites the global potato community, including companies and researchers, to share news and articles for broader exposure. Aiming to connect valuable insights across the industry, the platform offers editorial consideration for submitted press releases and announcements. With over 12,000 readers in 120 countries, Potato News Today seeks informative content on topics like production, technology, and sustainability. The ultimate goal is to facilitate knowledge exchange and enhance awareness within the potato sector.

August 21, 2026

IDS camera technology enables precision potato sorting for professional and family-run farms

The Farmsort.one optical precision sorter revolutionizes potato classification by employing multiple IDS industrial cameras over a 1.5-metre inspection section. This system meets rising quality demands and labor shortages in agriculture by enabling multi-grade sorting based on size and quality in a single pass. It reduces manual resourcing, emphasizing repeated inspections and controlled handling, ensuring reliable assessments even in challenging conditions, thus optimizing overall throughput.

August 20, 2026