Variety Selection and Management

Abstract

Selecting a potato variety to grow and successfully market has become more complex in recent years, as the number and range of market types and acceptable attributes has greatly increased. Changing consumer preferences have also been a significant driving force behind this change, resulting in a much more colorful market produce section than in the past. Descriptions are provided for some of the major varieties grown in North America, along with their morphological and agronomic characteristics, incentives for production, strengths and weaknesses, and key management considerations. Although variety acceptance in the marketplace is a dynamic process, many of these varieties have remained and will likely remain in commerce for years to come.