Optimising Nutrient Efficiency Through Potato Variety Selection in Portugal
In Portugal, potato varieties such as Red Scarlett, Agria, and Bellarosa are widely cultivated, each with distinct fertilisation requirements. Variety choice plays a crucial role in nutrient efficiency and sustainability. Red Scarlett needs more than 250 kg/ha of nitrogen (N), 100 kg/ha of phosphorus (P), and 300 kg/ha of potassium (K) due to its vigorous growth and high tuber yield. Agria, more commonly used in industry, requires less intensive fertilisation, with 230 kg/ha of N, 100 kg/ha of P and 300 kg/ha of K, which are essential for achieving high-quality dry matter content.
Bellarosa is earlier maturing and more resistant, responding well to fertilisation with 220 kg/ha of N, 100 kg/ha of P and 275 kg/ha of K, to ensure ideal tuber size and texture. Investing in varieties like Bellarosa can reduce input costs and environmental impact. Additionally, farmers in some regions have reduced nitrogen use by up to 20% through soil and water analysis combined with fertigation, maintaining yields and improving quality. Optimising fertilisation requires both variety selection and precise, site-specific management.
Additional information
CONSULAI - Portugal
The NUTRI-CHECK NETwork to maximise site-specific precision in managing the nutrition of European arable crops.
Completed | 2023-2025
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Denmark, France, Greece, Ireland, Netherlands, Lithuania, Portugal, Poland, United Kingdom