Sack Potato Farming: The key factors to a

successful harvest
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26 April 2014

By A Usaiwevhu

The farming of potatoes in sacks and bags and the widespread practice of this method of
farming in Zimbabwe and its importance to food security at the family level, makes it
imperative that, we continue to promote this method of farming. Indeed, it is early days of
this farming method in Zimbabwe and there are and there will be successes and
disappointments.
In this article, I outline the key areas that the sack potato farmer needs to have detailed
knowledge of in order to have a good harvest, from a non-technical viewpoint.
The information which forms the background to this article was derived from the feedback on
Sack Potato Farming solicited on the Agri Universe Zimbabwe Facebook Page and from
enquiries and other communication entered into between existing and potential growers and
Agri Universe Zimbabwe since December 2013. The information may not be new but it is a
reiteration of how we can grow potatoes successfully. Additionally, we have started a series
of articles on the growing of potatoes. The first instalment was titled Potato Diseases - A
closer look at Late Blight. You may view and read the article from knowledge resources on
the Agri Universe Zimbabwe website.
Responses to the probe on Facebook
We recently ran two posts on the Facebook Page of Agri Universe Zimbabwe, titled SACK POTATO
FARMING FEEDBACK, during the week ending Saturday, 19 April 2014. We would like to take this
opportunity to thank all who contributed to this feedback exercise. The number of responses to the
probe were not many given the potential number of growers throughout the country.
Other information used
From December 2013, we have had a number of enquiries on Sack Potato Farming ranging from training
requirements to sources of quality seed and disease control. On disease control, the request for advice
and information came too late as the damage had already been done to the crop. On some other
occasions, it has been the incorrect application of chemicals, in an effort to control diseases, as the
suspected cause of failure of the crop.

Summary
Sack Potato Farming is a relatively new method of growing potatoes in the country. We can grow
potatoes in sacks or bags in our verandas, balconies and on our little backyards in the towns and cities.
We have all of us become new potato farmers or potential new potato farmers overnight. It is to be
expected that there have been both successes and disappointments in that short period.
In summary, what we need is knowledge of the potato crop and how it can be grown successfully in
sacks or bags.
We have have noted the areas of concern. We have also looked at other factors which impact on yields.
We have combined all these and itemized them below. The treatment of the issues involved may not be
exhaustive and detailed but should provide guidance of the key areas that require attention. As noted in
the opening paragraghs, we are running a series of articles on the growing of potatoes which may be of
assistance.
(a) Training
Expert knowledge of the crop/s is a must in any serious farming venture. In field farming, the farmer
employs a farm manager who has the requisite knowledge and skills to ensure successful farming
operations.
In Sack Potato Farming we take on the role of the farmer and farm manager all in one. Thus, we should
endeavor to get all the information that is required. Training should cover seed selection, seed
preparation and all the steps to be taken until harvest and storage.
The training and/or manual should include all the areas we have listed below as these will determine the
quantity and quality of your harvest. It is important to be clear about all these influences and how they
are going to affect the yields that you will get, right from the outset.
You should also ensure that you continue to have access to the Agronomist for any assistance that you
may need.
(b) Type and Quality of Seed
This is not-negotiable. The seed should be certified, free from disease, for example. Varieties of seed
include Amethyst, Mont Claire, BP1, True Potato Seed, Emerald, Pimpernel and Jacaranda.
Certified seed may include the following qualities, depending on the seed variety:

Some give higher yields than others.

Some are resistant to certain strains of disease. Thus, you may reduce the risk of your crop being
affected by certain diseases right from the outset.

Some are of early maturity. Others are of late maturity.

Some are frost resistant.

Some perform better than others in any given season or weather conditions.

Always establish with the seed house these important aspects plus any other additional relevant factors
before you buy.
(c) Disease and Pest Control
Ensure that you are aware of the different types of disease, pests, worms and moths which may affect
your crop. You will need to continually inspect your crop and if you notice anything unsual, please seek
assistance, promptly, to avoid losing your crop.
(d) Soil Types and Treatment
Some soil types are more suitable than others. The soil should be be free of nematodes, fungi , worms
and others.
(e) Weather conditions
Weather conditions have different impacts on quantity and quality of harvest.
Some potato diseases are also associated with certain weather conditions.
(f) Others

Weed control

Fertilizers

Organic growing of potatoes

Type and size of bag or sack

Water drainage from the sack or bag

Harvesting

Storage

(g) Environment
Finally, please help protect and preserve the environment by not digging for soil in open spaces and by
not buying soil which may also have been dug from open spaces. It is illegal to do so. It should be noted
that these activities excercabate soil erosion and land degradation.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are the authors and do not necessarily represent the
views, opinions and positions of Agri Universe Zimbabwe and Hewkon Publications or any employee
thereof.
For all questions and comments, please write to info@agriuniverse.co.zw. Responses will be provided
within the shortest possible time.
http://www.agriuniverse.co.zw