Dry matter and storage quality of different potato varieties at varied haulm pulling dates

Abstract

Abstract : An investigation was conducted at the Tuber Crops Research Sub Centre, Munshiganj of BARI during 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 potato growing season with four varieties viz. Asterix, Granola, Felsina and Lady Rosetta to see the dry matter and storage quality of tubers at varied haulm pulling dates (75, 80 and 85 DAP). Haulm pulling had no significant effect on yield of tubers but it had a significant effect on dry matter. Dry matter was recorded highest (21.2%) when haulm was pulled out at 80 DAP and it was the lowest (19.9%) when no haulm pulling was practiced. All the studied varieties performed better under natural storage when haulm pulling was done on 80 or 85 DAP. Among the varieties, Felsina performed the worst when stored under natural condition and 44.08% cumulative weight loss was recorded at 150 DAS. Total rottage loss was also higher in Felsina at 150 DAS (17.68%). All other three varieties performed better in this respect when the haulm pulling was done at 80 or 85 DAP. The variety Felsina was not suitable for storage under natural condition; while Asterix, Granola and Lady Rosetta was found better upto 120 days after storage under natural condition.