Introduction
Out of season or winter production of fresh, crisp and seed potatoes can be increased north of Perth between Lancelin and Dongara in Western Australia. This will increase the value of the potato industry and the period of the year when additional supplies are available. It will also create opportunities for industry to access interstate and export markets counter to the main cropping season in WA.
The focus of production is currently near Dandaragan (140km north of Perth and 75km south-east of Jurien Bay) where 160ha were sown by three growers in 2012. Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA) data indicates adequate arable land and water of suitable quality to increase production.
DAFWA assessed factors limiting yield by monitoring insects and diseases in crops and providing support for agronomic decisions on three commercial properties.
While seed quality was an important limitation, improvements in agronomic management were also important.
This page looks at best management practices for irrigation, salinity management and harvesting.