No-nonsense, no-frills potato news stories from around the world
Potatoes, the world’s fourth most essential crop, will undergo full genotyping in Germany through the POMORROW project, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research. With 6,357 potato accessions in the gene bank, the initiative aims to identify traits for sustainable cultivation, focusing on drought tolerance. Research at the Max Planck Institute examines genetic diversity and mycorrhizal fungi interactions to enhance resilience and ensure reliable yields amid climate challenges.
A Norwich Research Park spin-out, BioPotatoes (BioP), is conducting year-two field trials focused on a new Maris Piper potato that resists late blight, a disease with historical significance. Supported by TSL Ventures and received significant funding, BioP aims to commercialize these disease-resistant tubers by 2030. With new precision-breeding laws in England, BioP seeks to enhance sustainability and reduce pesticide use, ultimately safeguarding potato production for the UK and Europe.
AgriScout, an autonomous robot developed by an international research team, efficiently detects Potato Virus Y (PVY) infestations in potato crops. Equipped with advanced imaging technology, it collected over 55,000 high-resolution images and achieved an 85% detection accuracy using a YOLOv11 deep learning model. Deployed in commercial fields in Atlantic Canada, it creates precise infestation maps, enhancing disease management. This technology could significantly improve disease scouting efficiency and accuracy
Researchers led by Iowa State University sociologist Katie Dentzman are examining neonicotinoid use in U.S. potato production, probing consumer perceptions, regulatory gaps, and farmer trade-offs. While neonics are banned or restricted in parts of Europe and Canada, U.S. regulation is largely retailer-driven. The study combines consumer surveys, farmer focus groups, and policy analysis to assess real-world impacts, aiming to guide future decisions on pesticides, sustainability, and agricultural resilience.
New research from Potatoes New Zealand reveals that while fresh potatoes are New Zealanders’ favorite vegetable, many view them merely as a “carb,” overlooking their nutritional benefits. Over two-thirds consume them at least twice weekly, yet perception barriers hinder increased consumption. The study highlights the importance of promoting potatoes’ healthfulness and diverse varieties, aiming to shift public perception and address declining consumption, a priority for industry growth.
The University of Idaho’s new SnakeFlux network is transforming water management across southern Idaho by delivering high-frequency, field-based evapotranspiration (ET) data from crops and rangeland. Led by researcher Meetpal Kukal, the system updates decades-old crop coefficients, supports irrigation scheduling, and validates satellite ET estimates.
A new study in Cell has solved a long-standing mystery about the potato’s origins. Researchers found that the modern potato arose about 9 million years ago from a rare hybridization between the ancestors of tomatoes and ‘Etuberosum’. This genetic union created the potato’s defining feature—the tuber—enabling it to thrive in the Andes. The findings could help breed seed-grown potatoes more resilient to disease, pests, and climate change.
Late blight disease is increasing in Central and Western Canada, threatening potato and tomato crops. Although new pathogens are emerging, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada researchers are developing identification techniques and prevention methods. They emphasize the importance of home gardeners in disease management by planting resistant varieties. Weather patterns are influencing outbreaks, especially in Eastern Canada, necessitating education and coordinated efforts among producers and the gardening community to mitigate risks.
Scientists have developed potato-GEM, the first genome-scale metabolic model to include both primary and full secondary metabolism in potatoes. Using data from Colorado potato beetle and Potato virus Y stress tests, the model accurately replicated growth reductions and metabolite changes. This tool enables breeders to pinpoint growth–defense trade-offs, helping design potato varieties that maintain high yields while boosting resilience against pests and diseases—without increased reliance on chemical controls.
The 2024 EuroBlight data reveals significant shifts in the Phytophthora infestans population, with EU_36_A2 emerging as the dominant genotype. This underscores the adaptability of late blight, necessitating strategic changes in management practices for 2025. The decline of EU_43_A1 highlights the effectiveness of disciplined fungicide stewardship. For successful control, growers must diversify resistance, utilize decision support tools, and engage in continuous surveillance to tackle evolving challenges.
A team of scientists has identified how potato plants defend against Spongospora subterranea, a harmful pathogen causing powdery scab. The research reveals that salicylic acid (SA), a plant hormone, is crucial for the plants’ immune response. Using an innovative “hairy root” system, they accelerated study of root-pathogen interactions. Findings may help develop potato varieties with enhanced resistance, addressing critical agricultural risks linked to the pathogen.
A team of scientists from Aberystwyth University is creating an innovative AI-powered app named DeepDetect to identify potato blight before symptoms appear. The app uses advanced machine learning to deliver real-time, location-specific forecasts to farmers’ smartphones, supporting precise and sustainable disease management. Dr. Edore Akpokodje emphasizes the app’s goal of being robust, practical, and easy to use for farmers.
Soft rot and blackleg are two of the most destructive bacterial diseases in potato production, primarily caused by Pectobacterium and Dickeya species. This article, compiled and published by Potatoes SA. outlines how these pathogens infect plants through wounds and moist conditions, leading to rapid tuber decay and stem collapse. It highlights symptoms, transmission pathways, and key risk factors, while emphasizing the importance of using certified seed, good sanitation practices, and environmental management to prevent outbreaks and protect yields.
Fera Science has introduced a wireworm DNA barcoding test aimed at aiding UK growers in accurately identifying wireworm species to mitigate crop damage costing hundreds of thousands. Launched at Groundswell 2025, the tool stems from Fera’s ENIGMA I project, highlighting climate change’s effect on wireworm populations. With over 60 species in the UK, precise identification is essential for effective pest management and sustainable agricultural practices.
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that enriching potato snacks with bee pollen significantly boosts their antioxidant and phenolic content. Despite some losses during frying, snacks fortified with 3% bee pollen—especially multifloral varieties—offered optimal nutritional and sensory benefits. The research highlights bee pollen’s potential as a functional, sustainable food additive, opening new opportunities for healthier, plant-based snack innovations that meet modern consumer demands.
Michigan State University (MSU) is advancing potato science with a research project led by graduate student Joseph Ulasi and Dr. David Douches, focusing on enhancing late blight resistance in diploid potato lines. The project integrates novel resistance genes from Solanum species, utilizing Solanum verrucosum as a genetic intermediary to facilitate gene transfer from Solanum pinnatisectum. This initiative is part of MSU’s broader effort supported by Project GREEEN, aiming for high-yielding, disease-resistant potato varieties.
Dutch starch cooperative Royal Avebe collaborates with TNO and Wageningen University & Research to develop a renewable, biodegradable potato-based printing filament aimed at revolutionizing food production. They focus on creating plant-based meat substitutes using 3D printing technology, enhancing texture and taste. This partnership combines expertise to meet the growing demand for alternative proteins, striving for sustainable food options while addressing food security challenges globally.
Texas A&M’s annual Potato Field Day in Springlake, scheduled for July 16, will showcase advanced russet clones like Dune Russet and Duncan Russet, which are engineered for heat and viral resistance. Attendees will learn about breeding innovations and crop insights from local growers. The event, organized by Texas A&M AgriLife Research, is free to participate and aims to connect research with farmer needs.
A significant international study led by Dr. Olivia Smith from Michigan State University has demonstrated that biodiverse farming practices enhance environmental and social outcomes, earning recognition and funding from the Frontiers Planet Prize. Analyzing data from over 2,600 farms worldwide, the research emphasized that integrating livestock, crops, and conservation strategies boosts biodiversity, improves food security, and maintains productivity, offering a pathway toward sustainable agriculture.
A landmark meta-analysis published in Field Crops Research highlights potassium (K)’s crucial role in enhancing potato yield and quality in China, based on 2,165 data points across 192 studies. Key findings show a 19.2% yield increase, improved nutrient uptake, and regional-specific K application recommendations. Emphasizing the need for sustainable practices, the research aims to optimize growth while addressing environmental concerns linked to K fertilization in China’s potato sector.
A researcher from Harper Adams University and Fera Science Ltd are conducting a study on root-knot nematodes (RKN) affecting potato crops in England, seeking soil samples from 14 English counties. Led by Celestine Oduor, the research aims to fill knowledge gaps regarding RKN prevalence and to develop management strategies. Growers are invited to collect samples, which will be analyzed to enhance risk assessments. Results will be shared with contributors while maintaining confidentiality.
Researchers at the James Hutton Institute are advancing potato genetics by applying genomic sequencing to haploid genomes, identifying traits like disease resistance and climate resilience. Their work addresses the challenges of potato breeding, which is complicated by the tetraploid nature of potatoes. Utilizing molecular markers and haplotype tagging, they enhance breeding efficiency, providing farmers with high-yield, resilient varieties while promoting global food security through adaptable agricultural innovations.
DormFresh Ltd., in collaboration with TASC International GmbH, has launched a new Trial and Research Center in Rosche, Germany, focusing on sustainable potato storage following the EU’s CIPC ban. This EUR 600,000 facility features advanced storage technology and aims to enhance trials for new sprout inhibitors while improving quality assurance standards in the industry. Initial trials are in progress for EU product approval.
Chloroplast engineering is emerging as a breakthrough technology for crop improvement, with direct relevance to potato farming. The Oxford-led OPTIMiSE project, backed by £6.7 million in funding, aims to redesign chloroplast genomes to enhance yield, resilience, and nutrient efficiency in potatoes. By leveraging natural variation and advanced synthetic biology, this approach could surpass conventional breeding methods. Such innovation holds promise for building climate-smart, high-performing potato varieties fit for future agricultural challenges.
A University of Oxford research team has secured a £6.7 million grant to investigate chloroplast engineering, aimed at improving potato and wheat production. Collaborating with Wild Bioscience Ltd, the project seeks to enhance photosynthesis efficiency and resilience against climate stressors by reprogramming chloroplasts. This could lead to higher crop yields and reduced agricultural inputs, addressing food security challenges and fostering sustainable farming amidst climate change.
