Mechanical pulverization followed by spraying the stumps halves the amount of chemicals used to 1.5-2 litres per ha with no reduction in quality. If a band sprayer is used the amount can be reduced to 1 litre per ha Pulling is a chemical-free method where the stems are removed from the tubers by rollers. This is effective but requires wide row-spacing and stone-free ridges. Flaming involves pulverization of the haulm and subsequent exposure of the stumps to a very high temperature This process should be avoided on easily combustible organic soils.

Use of these guidelines will permit maintenance of growth potential and productivity of seed potatoes and of cooking quality of potatoes for consumption.

Stability of yield and table quality of these cv belonging to early, 2nd-early and main crop groups are discussed.

The possible use of nematicides to enable a shortening of the rotation is considered.

Soil preparation, planting depths and density, earthing up, organic fertilizers, requirements for N, P, K, Ca and Mg, desiccation of the tops, and handling of potatoes are reviewed with reference to specific requirements of early and late cv

Results indicated that there was a clear identification of a difference between main crop potatoes and new potatoes, although both types were generally purchased from supermarkets. Main crop potatoes are a basic food item which is relatively unaffected by product price. Respondents indicated that they did not expect their main crop potato consumption to increase if the quality of potatoes was guaranteed but that they would be willing to pay 33% more for such potatoes.

It is a general purpose early maincrop variety with potential for crisp manufacture. It has a low reducing-sugar content during storage. Good levels of resistance to Globodera pallida and G rostochiensis have been identified in 2 clones of Solanum berthaultii, 2 of S spegazzini and 9 of S vernei.

The method is particularly efficient in regions having moderate climate, with average temperature during harvest of 0-2 degrees C at night.

Covers or shading may be used or planting may be done on the S facing slope of a ridge. Protection should continue until the crop canopy closes. Insect damage may impair shading of the ground by the crop and should be avoided if possible. Plants may wither under protective covers and this leads to reduced tuber yields. Cv.

For cattle fattening, ensiling potatoes is preferable and financially viable if potato prices do not exceed FS 12/100 kg. Feeding raw potatoes to dairy cows is economic up to FS 18/100 kg, saving costs of ensiling.