Smart Farming

From rice straw to potato fields: Vietnam connects crop rotations, composting and regional learning

A recent workshop in northern Vietnam focused on integrating potatoes into diversified farming systems, linking crop production, nutrient management, and local markets. Participants visited the Nam Cuong Cooperative to discuss innovative practices in rice and potato farming, aiming to enhance farmers’ livelihoods. The cooperative exemplifies how coordinated crop management can optimize resources. The collaboration explores sustainable practices, seed management, and composting, reinforcing the importance of adaptable farming strategies for broader agricultural success.

October 12, 2026

Beyond the harvest: England’s potato growers face a critical winter water test

The recent drought update highlights the urgent need for England’s potato industry to focus on replenishing irrigation reservoirs, as many are only 0-20% full. A temporary regulatory measure allows some growers to refill outside typical periods but requires compliance with environmental protections. The situation emphasizes the importance of water management for future production, stressing that separate assessments of past yields and future resource availability are crucial for planning.

October 10, 2026

The final loads matter: NAPSO urges extra care as harvest pressures mount

As potato harvesting wraps up in North America, the North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) emphasizes the importance of safety amidst the pressure. Their article outlines essential precautions for growers and workers, highlighting communication, risk assessments, and fatigue management. Protecting worker safety is crucial, as incidents can impact entire communities. The article provides safety check questions and resources to support safe storage practices during this critical time.

October 10, 2026

Beyond the congress hall: Will Kenya 2026 leave a lasting potato legacy?

From 26 to 30 October, the World Potato Congress will meet in Kenya—the first edition held in sub-Saharan Africa. Delegates from 62 countries are already registered, but the event’s significance extends beyond attendance figures. Its lasting value will depend on whether global science, investment and technology connect with farmers’ everyday constraints, and whether African growers, researchers, young people and businesses help set the agenda rather than merely host it there.

September 29, 2026

Salt in the root zone: An emerging test for global potato production

Soil salinity is quietly reducing potato performance in irrigated and coastal production regions, often before obvious symptoms appear. New research suggests that zinc and phosphorus may help certain potato genotypes withstand salt stress, but it is not yet a field-ready prescription. The larger lesson is practical: test water and soil, understand where salts accumulate, protect drainage and match varieties and nutrients to the root-zone problem before yields begin to disappear.

September 29, 2026

Less nitrogen, but the same crop?

A Prince Edward Island field study found that reducing potato nitrogen applications by 25% preserved marketable yield while some combinations of rotation and enhanced-efficiency fertiliser sharply lowered nitrous oxide emissions. The result is promising, but it is not a universal recommendation to cut rates. It demonstrates why nitrogen decisions should reflect soil supply, rotation history, weather, variety and requirements—and why measuring the crop matters more than following a habitual number.

September 28, 2026

‘Weed hunters reloaded’: Canadian scientists targeting troublesome weeds with grit and innovation

Dr. Andrew McKenzie-Gopsill’s research explores a novel weed control method for Canadian farmers using baking soda and corn cob grit. By employing abrasive techniques and bioherbicides, the approach effectively targets stubborn weeds, like lamb’s quarters and wild buckwheat, without harming potato crops or yields. While promising, challenges include sourcing materials and costs. This method particularly benefits high-value and organic crops, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional herbicides.

September 28, 2026

Potatoes, humane farming and the wider circle of care

Potatoes may seem far removed from animal welfare, but they occupy an important place in the wider conversation about humane farming. As organisations such as Mercy For Animals support farmers seeking alternatives to industrial animal agriculture through initiatives like The Transfarmation Project, the potato sector has an opportunity to contribute practical crop knowledge, market insight and solidarity rooted in farmer dignity, food security and responsible land stewardship.

September 25, 2026

PapaDX moves beyond photo diagnosis as AI assistant learns the history of individual potato fields

PapaDX, an AI-driven app developed in Argentina, has expanded from basic image-based crop diagnosis to a comprehensive digital assistant for potato growers. Its new features include field-specific memory tracking, Growing Degree Days monitoring, and a weed identification function. These updates enhance crop management by anticipating risks and contextualizing field history, marking a shift from reactive diagnosis to proactive support, ultimately aiming to empower growers in potato production.

September 23, 2026

What the canopy cannot tell us: Heat damage hidden inside the potato ridge

Recent potato losses in East Asia due to extreme heat highlight significant production risks. South Korean grower Lee Sang-hyuk discovered that potatoes, seemingly healthy above ground, were damaged beneath the surface during a heatwave. The temperatures disrupt tuber formation, impacting yield and quality. The findings emphasize that managing soil temperature and moisture is crucial, as traditional measurements may not reflect the conditions tubers experience, leading to hidden crop losses.

September 10, 2026

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.

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

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

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.

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 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.

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

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

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

Regenerative agriculture and potatoes: The opportunity may begin between crops

Regenerative agriculture emphasizes enhancing soil health rather than simply abandoning existing systems, particularly for potato growers. Although potatoes are soil-demanding, practices like longer rotations, cover crops, and minimized disturbance can improve soil conditions. Research supports that integrating regenerative principles can boost resilience against climate challenges, making it essential for growers to consider how to maintain and improve soil for future crops while ensuring economic viability.

August 20, 2026

‘The algorithm and the acre’: Why the future of potato breeding will still be decided in farmers’ fields

The GAIN-RT initiative, announced on August 18, 2026, aims to enhance potato breeding through artificial intelligence, focusing on climate resilience and disease resistance. Collaborating with institutions such as the International Potato Center and KALRO, GAIN-RT will combine genomic and environmental data to improve selection processes. However, concerns remain about AI’s limitations and the necessity for local insights, training, and effective seed systems to ensure successful variety adoption by farmers.

August 19, 2026

Global partnership launches AI project to accelerate development of climate-resilient potato and sweetpotato varieties

A global initiative named GAIN-RT has been launched to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) in the rapid development of crop varieties, primarily focused on potatoes and later sweetpotatoes. This collaboration includes the International Potato Center, the James Hutton Institute, and African partners, aiming to address challenges posed by climate change, pests, and diseases. The project also emphasizes training for scientists, particularly women, to enhance local research capabilities and improve food security.

August 19, 2026

The potato industry’s next water challenge: Learning to produce more value from every drop

Recent research from Europe and North America reveals that increased irrigation does not guarantee better potato yields, challenging common practices. Factors such as crop stage, cultivar, and irrigation method influence outcomes significantly. Findings indicate that effective water management relies on precise decisions regarding irrigation timing and amount, rather than general assumptions, emphasizing economic productivity over simple yield maximization. The industry should embrace a holistic approach to enhance drought resilience.

August 18, 2026

The invisible yield tax beneath the rows: Why soil compaction belongs on every potato business’s risk register

Soil compaction in potato production is a subtle yet significant issue that affects crop yield and quality. Symptoms like uneven emergence and poor canopy growth often mask the problem, leading to misdiagnosis and increased input costs. Larger machinery and tighter margins intensify this challenge. Effective management requires diagnosing soil structure, preventing damage from trafficked equipment, and implementing practices that restore soil health, emphasizing the importance of careful operational planning and organization.

August 17, 2026