Essential Tips for Stable Autumn Potato Production: Focus on Seed Size, Sprouting, and Soil Management

As autumn potato cultivation begins, the Rural Development Administration (RDA) emphasizes that careful pre-planting and early-stage management are critical to overcoming the challenges of high temperatures and heavy rainfall. Unlike spring planting, autumn potatoes are typically sown in August—during the hot, humid rainy season—and harvested after the first frost. To reduce the risk of tuber rot and ensure rapid, uniform emergence, the RDA strongly recommends using whole seed potatoes weighing between 30–60 grams, rather than cut pieces. Cutting seed tubers, as is common in spring farming, leaves wounds that heal poorly in warm, wet conditions, inviting pathogens and causing decay. Before planting, growers should confirm that dormancy has been broken and that sprouts are evenly developed; otherwise, delayed emergence can shorten the growing period and reduce yields. Varieties such as ‘Chubaek,’ ‘Daeji,’ ‘Eunseon,’ and ‘Geumseon’ are noted for their short dormancy and suitability for two-cropping systems without special break treatments.

In addition to seed selection, proper soil moisture and planting depth are vital. Farmers should check drainage before sowing—excessively wet soil after monsoon rains depletes oxygen and promotes rot, so fields should be ditched and allowed to dry moderately. Plant tubers with about 5 cm of soil cover, and add another 5 cm of ridge soil after sprouts emerge. This layered covering stabilizes emergence, buffers soil temperature extremes, reduces moisture fluctuations, and protects against soil erosion or tuber exposure from heavy rains. Dr. Kwang-Soo Cho, head of the RDA’s Highland Agriculture Research Institute, advises that using whole seed potatoes is the key to withstanding August’s heat and humidity, while diligent sprouting and field care will secure stable yields.