The potato crop in Canada is now in the very critical growth stage of tuber bulking according to the United Potato Growers of Canada (UPGC). That’s the assessment as of August 19, 2021.
“Set has been determined and it is now this phase which will provide yield and determine production for this crop,” says UPGC general manager Kevin MacIsaac. “While there is still considerable time left for many growing regions, the Canadian crop in mid-August appears to have good potential – in many but not all regions – to meet the needs of industry and rebound after reductions in yield and production experienced due to growing conditions in the previous two seasons.
Early harvest of table, chip and processing potatoes has begun in most provinces.
Here’s the province-by-province summary:
Prince Edward Island. The first 90-100 days of the growing season have been almost ideal, with 130 plus mm of rainfall during July. Some growers feel their crop is a week to 10 days ahead of normal maturity. Field digs and industry sampling suggest very good yield and sizing. However, additional moisture is needed to finish out the crop.
New Brunswick. The overall health of the crop is good to excellent. Normally, early chip harvest would be underway, but there is no contract with the chip company. French fry plants will start on August 27 and 30. Friers are showing interest in purchasing open potatoes to cover potential shortfalls in their western production regions.
Québec. Recent heat is stressing the crop. Irrigation or timely rainfall may help the situation. Early harvest of table, chip and process potatoes is underway with yields average to slightly above average, with good quality.
Ontario. Nice growing conditions have been experienced province-wide with abundant rainfall taking some pressure off running long days of irrigation. The crop is advancing early with growers expecting top-killing a week to 10 days ahead of normal. Early chipstock harvest has been underway for three weeks now.
Manitoba. The fresh potato-growing areas have experienced the most severe drought, with growers estimating 50 per cent of a normal crop. For processing growers, mid-30°C temperatures are stressing varieties such as Russet Burbank which are susceptible to early dying. Early harvest on Rangers began August 10, matching or exceeding expectations for yield with good sizing.
Saskatchewan. Irrigation has resulted in a very decent looking crop. Growers expect better quality and yields than the last two years. Harvest is expected to start September 1.
Alberta. The province received one inch of rain in mid-August, the first in about two months, however crop damage is already done. Yields could be down by 15 to 20 per cent with variable size profiles and quality. Early harvest in chipping potatoes is yielding in the 12 tons/acre range. Demand for new crop is extremely high, but the province is short on supplies.
British Columbia. Growers have managed the record-setting heat with irrigation. Average yields are expected. Demand has been good, although growers are challenged to dig early in the day and get field heat out before packaging.
Source : United Potato Growers of Canada