In the world of potato farming, breaking the dormancy of minitubers is a critical step that can significantly impact yields and economic outcomes. A recent study led by Shabnam Hasrak from the Biotechnology and Plant Breeding Department at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad in Iran has shed new light on this process, offering promising insights for commercial potato cultivation. The research, published in the journal ‘علوم و فناوری بذر ایران’ (translated to ‘Seed Science and Technology of Iran’), evaluated the effects of various treatments on the dormancy and germination of potato minitubers, with a focus on two popular commercial varieties, Sante and Agria.
The study aimed to identify the most effective dormancy-breaking treatment to reduce the dormancy period of minitubers, which can vary based on several factors. Hasrak and her team examined the individual effects of gibberellic acid (GA3), thiourea, and carbon disulfide (CS2) on minituber dormancy. They also considered the influence of genotype background, which affects dormancy periods, and minituber size.
“Reducing the minituber dormancy has economic importance,” stated Hasrak, highlighting the significance of the research. The team found that while CS2 and thiourea had some positive effects on reducing dormancy, a closer look at the derived sprouts revealed that these treatments were not ideal for commercial use. Instead, GA3 at a concentration of 0.05 grams per liter emerged as the most effective treatment for reducing dormancy in both cultivars.
The research also explored the impact of these treatments on sprout numbers and sprout length, which are crucial indicators of healthy and vigorous plant growth. GA3 not only broke the dormancy of different minituber sizes but also positively influenced sprouting-related parameters, making it a promising candidate for commercial applications.
The findings of this study could have significant implications for the potato farming industry. By optimizing the dormancy-breaking process, farmers can potentially achieve earlier and more uniform germination, leading to improved yields and economic benefits. As Hasrak noted, “GA3 (0.05gl-1) was found to be the best treatment for reducing dormancy period in both cultivars,” suggesting that this approach could be widely adopted in the future.
This research not only advances our understanding of potato minituber dormancy but also paves the way for more efficient and effective agricultural practices. As the global demand for potatoes continues to grow, innovations in this area will be crucial for meeting the needs of farmers and consumers alike. The study published in ‘Seed Science and Technology of Iran’ serves as a valuable contribution to the field, offering insights that could shape the future of potato cultivation.