Challenges to sustainable potato production in Tasmania, Australia

TL;DRAbstract

Tasmania is a significant potato producer in Australia, accounting for c. 25% of the nations annual crop of about 1 million tonnes. The cool-temperate climate and deep, well structured soils are well suited to potato production. French fries are the main potato product, accounting for about 80% of the crop. Potatoes are grown with high inputs of tillage, fungicide, fertiliser and irrigation, but insecticide applications are very modest compared to elsewhere because Tasmanias geographic isolation and tight quarantine regime have kept many pests from establishing, and the excellent seed certification has negated any need for virus vector control in either seed or ware crops. The industry faces a number of management challenges including combating soil erosion on the steep land widely used for potatoes, making more efficient use of fertiliser and irrigation, and managing a range of soil-borne diseases. Indications are that the industry is not making widespread gains on these fronts. This

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