NAPSO hosts informative webinar on successful potato storage season

USA – The North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) recently hosted a highly informative webinar titled “Preparing for a Successful Storage Season,” attracting professionals from the potato industry.

Todd Forbush, a well-respected potato storage expert at Techmark, Inc., delivered a compelling presentation that stood out among the event’s highlights.

Forbush’s presentation, titled “Crossroads to Harvest,” focused on best practices for potato storage, emphasizing the importance of understanding potato maturity as they transition from field to storage.

His expertise illuminated several key aspects of effective potato storage management, stressing the need for a comprehensive approach that includes weather monitoring, variety selection, soil management, and cultural practices.

At the heart of Forbush’s discussion were four critical factors influencing potato quality: soil, variety, cultural practices, and weather.

Each element significantly affects the storage potential of potatoes, making it essential for growers to understand their interactions.

Forbush highlighted that soil type and variety are the most crucial agronomic decisions for farmers. He noted, “The specific variety selected and the soil in which it is planted directly affect the sugar content and specific gravity of potatoes, which are vital for predicting their storage quality.”

He also stressed the importance of managing cultural practices. “Growers must carefully balance their nitrogen application. Too much or too little can delay crop development and lead to storage issues,” he explained.

Another vital point in Forbush’s presentation was the emphasis on pre-harvest sugar analysis. He argued that this analysis is essential for making informed decisions about nitrogen management and vine kill timing.

“Understanding tuber sucrose and glucose levels helps growers determine when to harvest and how to optimize storage conditions,” Forbush stated.

He recommended that growers conduct pre-harvest sampling at least twice—once three weeks before and again within one week of vine kill.

This approach allows for data collection on tuber sugars and specific gravity, enabling better management practices.

As the growing season progresses into fall, Forbush warned of frost risks that could impact potato quality. “Assessing crop maturity before cold weather is crucial,” he advised.

He elaborated on cold temperature sweetening, which occurs when potatoes are exposed to frost, causing rapid sugar increases. “Immature potatoes should be stored above 52°F to allow excess sugars to break down,” he recommended.

Forbush shared valuable cooling and holding strategies to maintain potato quality throughout storage. He urged growers to tailor cooling processes to their crop’s needs and avoid over-cooling healthy potatoes, which can lead to quality degradation.

“Regular monitoring of sugar levels is necessary to ensure optimal holding temperatures,” he cautioned.

In his closing remarks, Forbush highlighted the importance of industry collaboration and knowledge sharing. He referenced a quote from the late Dr. Burt Cargill, stating, “The potato will never let us know all the secrets.”

This sentiment underscores the need for continuous improvement in storage practices through shared experiences.

Todd Forbush’s insights during the NAPSO webinar provided practical information and strategies for potato growers and storage managers.

By adopting these best practices, the industry can enhance storage outcomes and navigate challenges such as unpredictable weather and market demands effectively.