“The crop is being completely reset, and, consequently, so is the whole chain,” says 3PointPotatoes’ Ben Bredek about the current potato market slump. “That will affect the entire chain next season: factories, seed potato growers, potato cultivation land lessees, and machine and crop protection product suppliers; they’ll all feel that impact, and acreage will decrease.”

© 3PointPotatoes

Ben sees that Europe’s competitive position is under pressure. “To be competitive, Europe will have to get a net yield of 50,000 kilograms per hectare again. Last year, the gross yield per hectare in Northern Europe was 42,000 kg, according to North-Western European Potato Growers Foundation figures. That means cost prices are too high,” he says.

Ben notes that the varieties used affect potato yields. “We know the soil tires of a variety if you plant the same one four times in a row once every four years on the same plot. With the same variety, you must go back to 1 in 8. Growers, thus, need at least two different varieties.” Ben adds that climate change and nitrogen regulations impact potato yields, too. “The climate keeps changing, and you’ll be allowed to use less rather than more nitrogen,” he explains.

© 3PointPotatoes

“Adjustments are, therefore, needed to achieve that 50-ton yield per hectare again. Everything must be focused on that.” Bredek has embraced the new robust varieties and their associated cultivation methods, which focus on developing the roots rather than the foliage; he, nevertheless, recognizes that this growing method is still relatively unknown. It requires a wholly different approach and intensive cultivation guidance.

A future?
Although Ben expects a reset in the potato chain, he certainly sees a future in it, too. “Potato cultivation has a future and will continue because it’s the crop with the highest number of kilocalories per hectare. Plus, it uses water 3.5 times more efficiently than rice. So, yes, I see a bright future for potatoes, but not for everyone. It’s for truly professional potato growers who adapt to changing circumstances,” Ben concludes.

Voor meer informatie:
Ben Bredek
3 Point Potatoes
Dorpstraat 17A
6454 AG Jabeek
+31 (0)6 534 129 24
[email protected]
www.3pointpotatoes.nl