Production and trade representatives have approved the early potato concept 2022, Swisspatat reports. This remains basically the same as in previous years; the Colomba variety, which is new on the 2022 main variety list, is being added. Again, the aim is to create a cultivation plan for early potatoes that will meet the demand. The past, challenging season was handled well, thanks to constructive cooperation.
The changeover from storage potatoes to new-season, domestic early potatoes is a major challenge every year, especially the market supply with firm-skinned, firm-cooking potatoes (green line). In order to supply the market with early potatoes in time, special potato varieties are planted in covered cultivation in the early-growing areas. Thanks to professional planning and partnership-based cooperation within the industry, the exchange of information continued to be positive in this challenging year.
Produce marketed as a speciality
Early potatoes of the Lady Christl and Agata varieties were marketed to wholesalers in the early segment as a specialty. This has proved successful and is to be continued in this way. In addition to the two established varieties, the Colomba variety will be added. This early variety will be included in the 2022 main variety list and is comparable to the Agata.
However, the market potential of these products is very limited and they are costly at the point of sale due to their short shelf life. The three varieties should each be offered up as early as possible. The emphasis lies on supplying the market as early as possible with potatoes from the new crop. This marketing concept has proven successful for both conventional and organic potatoes and will be continued.
Cultivation planning in 2022 must be coordinated with buyers
To ensure that the market remains in balance in 2022, the acreages should not be increased in the coming spring. Growers are urged to discuss acreage and variety planning with their customers.
