My saved potato seed is giving lower yields each year. Where to get certified seed and how often to change it?
Where can I get certified seed potato (aloo) in Punjab and how often to renew seed?
JJasbir11mo ago · 353 views
3 Answers
🌾Farmer.in Krishi TeamExpert ✓10mo ago
Falling yield from saved seed is seed degeneration, where viruses build up over generations and cut output, so renewing seed is essential. Punjab is a recognised seed potato area, and you can source certified, virus free seed from the state agriculture department, Punjab Agricultural University and its KVKs, the National Seed Corporation, and reputed registered growers; ask for the certification tag and lot details. As a thumb rule, renew or replace your seed stock at least every 2 to 3 years, and never keep seed from a virus or disease hit crop. If you save seed, use the seed plot technique, rogue out diseased and off type plants early, and dehaulm at the right time to avoid late aphid borne virus spread. Healthy certified seed is one of the cheapest ways to raise potato yield.
SSukhwinder10mo ago
I used to save seed every year and yields kept dropping. Once I started buying certified seed every second year the difference in the crop was clear.
GGurdeep10mo ago
Always ask for the tag and bill when you buy. A friend bought cheap seed off a trader with no certification tag and it carried disease, so check the tag and lot details from the department, PAU, NSC or a registered grower before paying.