Stavropol Krai, one of Russia’s leading agricultural regions, has started harvesting early potatoes—a strategically important crop for the area. This year, potato plantations cover over 6,200 hectares, marking a 10% increase compared to 2023 (Ministry of Agriculture data).
Current Harvest Progress
According to the latest operational reports from the regional Ministry of Agriculture:
- 18.6 hectares have been harvested so far (just 0.3% of the target).
- 706.8 tons of potatoes have been collected, with an average yield of 380 centners per hectare (approx. 38 tons/ha).
- The main harvesting efforts are concentrated in Ipatovsky and Petrovsky districts, known for their fertile soils and advanced farming practices.
Production Structure and Seed Development
Potato production in Stavropol is distributed across different farm types:
- 47% – Agricultural enterprises
- 44% – Household farms (LPH)
- 9% – Peasant farms (K(F)X)
The region is also focusing on domestic seed potato development, promoting high-yielding varieties such as:
- Vershininsky
- Volzhanin
- Zhukovsky Early
- Kolobok
- Manifest
Government Support Boosts Potato Farming
To strengthen the sector, the regional government has introduced financial incentives:
- 11.4 million rubles in subsidies for elite potato seeds and open-ground vegetable hybrids (allocated in March 2024).
- An additional 18.9 million rubles in state support for farmers who cultivated potatoes in 2023 (Elena Tambovtseva, First Deputy Minister of Agriculture of Stavropol Krai).
These subsidies aim to offset production costs and encourage investment in high-quality seed material, enhancing long-term sustainability.
Stavropol’s early potato harvest shows promising growth in planted area and yield potential, supported by strong government subsidies and a focus on domestic seed production. With continued investment in elite varieties and efficient farming practices, the region is poised to strengthen its position as a key player in Russia’s potato industry.
