The process will begin in a few days, so keep the following points in mind:
- Site Selection: Choose land that is located away from regular potato crops and has not seen potato cultivation for the past four years.
- Seed Treatment: Treat imported seeds with appropriate fungicides and insecticides before planting.
- Seed Size: Use medium-sized seed tubers and avoid fragmented ones.
- Planting Density: Maintain close planting distances to ensure a high number of small to medium-sized tubers, aiming for 20 to 22 stems per square meter.
- Planting Depth: Increase the depth of planting and ensure good coverage and soil compaction around the tubers one month after planting to prevent pest issues and mitigate effects from sandy soils.
- Insect Control: Implement a strict pest control program, particularly targeting aphids and tuber weevils.
- Balanced Fertilization and Irrigation: Ensure balanced fertilization and irrigation to prevent soil dryness and surface cracking.
- Virus Management: Conduct virus-infected plant removals at least two to three times.
- Early Harvesting: Harvest early to maintain the vitality and physiological quality of the tubers.
- Sorting: Sort out any infected plants and grade according to size.
- Packaging: Pack in bags or containers.
- Temperature Management: Gradually lower the temperature.
- Temperature Regulation: Maintain temperatures between 3.5 to 4 degrees Celsius.
Source: Engineer Saber Abdel Rahman
