Sacheon City in Gyeongnam Province has announced that applications for the 2025 autumn supply of certified seed potatoes will be accepted until August 29, 2024, via local administrative welfare centers. A total of three varieties are available:
- Sumi: 18 tons
- Jopung: 2.6 tons (an early-maturing, blight-resistant variety, exclusive to autumn planting)
- Dubaek: 3 tons
The pricing has not yet been finalized but will be announced later. Farmers are encouraged to apply in 20 kg (1 box) units, with an estimated requirement of 150–160 kg per 10 acres (300 pyeong) for planting.
Key Considerations for Farmers
- Autumn supply is ideal for greenhouse cultivation or early open-field planting.
- Jopung, an ultra-early maturing variety, offers strong late blight resistance and is only available in the autumn batch.
- Delivery will be made through local agricultural cooperatives (Nonghyup) between November 3 and December 5, 2024.
- A spring 2025 supply will open for applications in November 2024, with distribution expected in February–March 2025.
Why This Matters for Potato Growers
Potato is a high-value crop, with global production reaching 376 million metric tons in 2023 (FAO). Early-season varieties like Jopung can help farmers capitalize on premium market prices while reducing disease risks. Proper seed selection and timing are critical—studies show that certified seed potatoes can increase yields by 20–30% compared to farm-saved seeds (International Potato Center).
Sacheon’s autumn seed potato program provides farmers with high-quality, disease-resistant varieties to optimize yields. Early applicants can secure the best options for greenhouse or off-season production, ensuring better profitability. Farmers planning early cultivation or long-term storage should apply before the August 29 deadline.
