Needed Engineering Aids and Mechanization for True Potato Seed Seedling, Seedling Tuber Harvest, and Seedling Tuber Planting

Abstract

Abstract Although extensive research is currently being conducted related to true potato seed (TPS) in the areas of breeding, production, and cultural practices (1, 3, 4, 5), there is little information generated on the engineering aspects of potato production from TPS. Potato production from TPS varies greatly from current methods in which potatoes are grown from tubers. Potatoes can be produced from TPS in three different ways: 1) seeding TPS in rows to produce potatoes similar to other crops produced by direct seeding; 2) planting TPS to raise transplants for planting in another field; and 3) using TPS for the production of seedling tubers to be used like “seed” tubers. Mechanization needs for each of these TPS uses are different. It might be necessary to modify the existing equipment or develop new equipment to meet specific needs of using TPS. Equipment needs for potato production from TPS in developing countries also will need special consideration. Engineering research conducted at the Georgia Coastal Plain Experiment Station, related to potato production from TPS has been reported in detail by Ghate et al. (2). Since that publication, we have concentrated our research efforts in the direction of the equipment needs for TPS use in developing countries.