Resource use efficiencies in potato production

Abstract

Potato, the most important vegetable crop in South Africa, is produced in many distinct geographical regions differing in climate, soils, production seasons, management practices and access to markets. These differences affect the amount of input resources required to produce potato as well as yields and crop value, and therefore the use efficiencies of inputs. Potato production in South Africa takes place on about 50 000 ha, with 92% of the production area under irrigation. The availability of irrigation water is limiting potato production in almost all production regions, but especially in those areas relying on borehole water (e.g. in Limpopo, North West and the Sandveld). While potato is a high-value crop and important to rural economies, its production in South Africa is associated with several sustainability issues. The crop requires a high input of water, nutrients and biocides and due to potato’s shallow root system, its production entails a risk of high levels of water drainage and nutrient leaching.

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