Potato yields fell 15% in 2022

According to the various debates that took place during the National Potato Day, at the beginning of October, the decline in potato yields was mainly due to the drought conditions that affected many parts of the country. In addition, access or lack of access to irrigation systems also mitigated or aggravated the initial impact of the drought.

 

According to Teagasc (Agriculture and Food Development Authority), average potato yields in 2021 were 47 tonnes/hectare. In 2022 compared to the previous year, potato yields have decreased by around 10 to 15%. But in some parts of the country, the decline in yield was well over 15%.

 

 

The cultivated area in 2022 amounted to 7,400 hectares, about 400 hectares less than last year. The main harvest started at the end of August and has continued at a brisk pace so far.