Proper post-harvest handling is the final, and often most critical, determinant of potato profitability. This article breaks down the official recommendations from Russia’s Rosselkhozcentr and supplements them with the latest global data on curing and storage to minimize losses and preserve quality throughout the winter.
The difference between a profitable season and significant financial loss can hinge on the steps taken after the potato harvester leaves the field. In the Tambov region, specialists from the Zhedevsky Rosselkhozcentr have issued detailed guidance on preparing potatoes for storage, emphasizing that meticulous post-harvest handling is not just a recommendation but a necessity for preserving tuber quality and market value.
The process begins immediately after digging. The first critical step is the curing period. As recommended, this involves drying the tubers for 3 to 10 days in a shaded, well-ventilated area to remove excess moisture. This process is crucial for suberization—the development of a thick, hardened skin (periderm) that serves as a natural barrier against pathogens and physical damage. The warning against sun exposure is vital, as it prevents the formation of toxic solanine, which renders potatoes unfit for consumption.
Following the curing process, ideal storage conditions are paramount. The Rosselkhozcentr specifies:
- Temperature: +2 to +4 °C
- Relative Humidity: 80–90%
- Environment: A well-ventilated cellar or basement, with tubers stored in breathable containers like mesh bags or wooden crates.
These guidelines are supported by global research. According to a 2023 review in the American Journal of Potato Research, inadequate curing and improper temperature management are the leading causes of post-harvest losses, which can exceed 25% in developing economies. Furthermore, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) stresses that maintaining the recommended 90-95% humidity range is critical to prevent tuber shriveling and weight loss, directly preserving yield and profit.
For farmers and storage operators, the message is clear: investing time and resources in perfecting the post-harvest pipeline is as important as the growing season itself. The recommendations from Tambov are a scientifically sound blueprint for success. Implementing a disciplined approach to curing—ensuring it is thorough yet shaded—and meticulously controlling storage temperature and humidity can drastically reduce spoilage from rot and dehydration. In an era of volatile markets and high input costs, maximizing the percentage of marketable yield after storage is one of the most effective ways to safeguard profitability and ensure a reliable food supply through the off-season.
