Idaho has added a significant amount of acreage for its potatoes for fall 2021.
Last year the state planted 300,000 acres and this year that has grown to 315,000 acres planted.
“A lot of our farmers rotate grounds every two to three years so it’s rotational in a sense,” says Ross Johnson of the Idaho Potato Commission based in Eagle, ID speaking to the increased acreage. “But we’ve been able to sell pretty much our entire crop every year so that really gives our growers confidence that they can plant more.” He also adds that the commission is focused on developing export markets further to move those increased volumes.
Planting on time
To date, Idaho potatoes are approximately 10 weeks into their growing season, which tends to have long summer days and cool nights. “Growers on the west side of the state were able to plant a bit earlier but for the most part, everyone planted on time this year,” says Johnson.
As for harvest, more than 75 percent of the crop will start around September 1st and finish by early October. However, those Western Idaho growers that planted earlier and have a lower elevation will start harvest at the beginning of August.
While demand was steady for Idaho potatoes throughout the pandemic, retail outlets made up for much of the volume lost in foodservice due to government closures. Johnson says growers are optimistic about their ability to move the upcoming increased crop with foodservice outlets opening back up.
He also adds that marketing efforts on the part of the commission aim at boosting consumer demand. “Historically, we’ve focused on TV, PR, social media, influencers and brand ambassadors and will continue to do so to drive demand,” says Johnson.
