Potatoes are a cornerstone of agricultural production and home gardening, and the variety “Velikan” has been making waves for its impressive attributes. Registered in the Russian State Register in 2013, this variety is quickly becoming a favorite for growers seeking both productivity and quality.
Key Characteristics of “Velikan”
- Yield and Size:
The “Velikan” variety is highly productive, yielding up to 600 kg per sotka (0.01 hectares). Its large, uniform tubers weigh between 600 to 800 grams each, making harvesting more efficient and rewarding. - Disease Resistance:
This variety is resistant to common potato diseases, including scab, potato blight, cancer, and wrinkled and striped mosaic viruses. This reduces the need for intensive chemical treatments, making it suitable for sustainable farming practices. - Culinary Excellence:
“Velikan” potatoes feature a dense, white flesh that doesn’t darken when peeled and remains intact after cooking. The tubers offer a delicate taste and aroma, making them ideal for frying, soups, salads, and mashed potatoes. - Minimal Maintenance Requirements:
The variety thrives with basic care, including occasional but abundant watering, hilling, and soil loosening. The three essential watering times are:
- Before the first hilling.
- Before flowering.
- After flowering.
First hilling should occur when the plants reach a height of 20 cm, particularly when tubers begin forming.
Cultivation Tips for Maximum Yield
To achieve the full potential of “Velikan,” growers should ensure:
- Deep soil preparation for optimal root development.
- Consistent irrigation during critical growth stages to support tuber formation.
- Proper spacing between plants to avoid overcrowding, which can limit tuber size.
Testimonials from Growers
Gardeners and farmers have praised “Velikan” for its outstanding performance. Here’s what one grower had to say:
“I loved this potato variety. Each bush yields 5-9 tubers weighing 600-800 grams. The quality is superb—juicy, dense, and white flesh with no voids. It’s easy to harvest as the tubers grow closely together. They store exceptionally well and taste amazing when fried or baked.”
