A strategy for integrated low-input potato production

Abstract

Current systems of potato growing use large amounts of pesticides and fertilizers; these inputs are costly and cause environmental problems. In this paper a strategy for integrated low-input potato production is developed, with the aim of reducing costs, improving product quality and reducing environmental damage. The strategy involves suitable crop rotation, the use of cultivars with multiple resistance, modest fertilizer use (preferably based on organic manure), mechanical weed control, mechanical haulm destruction and limited use of pesticides. The prospects for this strategy are discussed.