Factors Affecting Specific Gravity of Potatoes

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• Excess N or high tissue N, in relation to other nutrients (out of balance) can lower specific gravity.
• High available soil N at, or just prior to tuber set, can lower specific gravity

Some work has shown an association between chloride (Cl) application and decreased specific gravity. However, other literature indicates that potatoes are more sensitive than many crops to shortages of chloride. Producers who suspect that excessive chlorides may be a problem should consider using potassium sulfate vs. potassium chloride for K₂O.

Excess or insufficient soil moisture can lower specific gravity. Optimum moisture availability as tubers approach maturity can increase specific gravity.

Vine kill at peak physiological maturity increases specific gravity, and killing vines slowly with chemicals increases specific gravity compared to a quick kill by physical means.

Short day lengths during tuber formation contribute to higher specific gravity, so adjusting planting dates to take advantage of this can be beneficial.

While high levels of available Calcium (Ca) has not been proven to directly affect the specific gravity of potatoes, it has been shown to play a major role in improving several other “quality” factors in potatoes. Calcium is a structural component of cell walls. Adequate Ca, therefore, contributes to the structural integrity of plant cells. Potatoes low in Ca will have an increased susceptibility to internal brown spot and soft rot disease in tubers. In the studies where additional Ca reduced these problems, gypsum was applied at rates of 500 and 750 lb./acre in the root zone. High levels of available Ca has also been shown to improve potato skin-set. !unlock