Potato growers know that many of the season’s biggest challenges begin below the soil surface. Soilborne disease pressure, uneven crop establishment, limited root development, and declining field performance can all influence crop quality and marketable production. This October, I look forward to discussing these challenges with growers from around the world at the 13th World […]
There’s a lot of conversation in agriculture about reducing soil disturbance—and for good reason. Protecting soil structure and biological function matters. But potato production requires more nuance. Seedbed preparation, planting, hilling and harvest all move soil. So rather than asking, “How can I disturb the soil less?” consider a better question: Is the disturbance helping […]
We talk a lot about the outcomes we want in agriculture: healthier soils, stronger yields, better crop quality and more resilient production systems. But lately, I’ve been thinking about a different question: What is the work required to actually get us there? In my latest article for Spud Smart, I explore the idea of functional […]
Over time, many growers notice that some fields simply don’t perform like they used to. Even with solid fertility, irrigation, and management practices, yields can plateau and crop uniformity declines. While these acres are often called “tired fields,” the real issue may lie below the surface. Healthy soils depend on active root systems and beneficial […]
For years, potato production has been measured by inputs—fertilizer, water, fuel, and crop protection products. While these investments are essential, they don’t tell the whole story. A more useful way to think about potato farming is through the lens of energy. Every potato harvested begins as captured solar energy. The crop’s ability to intercept sunlight, […]
Potato seed decisions often happen fast. Planting windows tighten, field conditions shift, and growers may have limited options available. But even under pressure, these early decisions can have a major impact on crop establishment and season-long performance. I recently joined Don Northcott for a Spud Smart panel discussion on potato seed quality. The conversation focused […]
Every grower knows seed matters—but how much does it really matter? Seed isn’t just another input. It sets the trajectory for the entire season. Emergence, stand uniformity, and ultimately yield all trace back to the decisions made before planting. But “good seed” isn’t always straightforward. Growers are constantly balancing quality, cost, disease risk, storage, and […]
Agriculture is entering a new era—one where soil is no longer evaluated solely by inputs or practices, but by measurable performance. Recently, I published a six-part research series on the Catalyst-Activated Cycle (CAC) through Zenodo, an open-access platform widely used across European research and policy communities. Each manuscript carries a permanent DOI and is freely […]
Spud Smart recently published an article that reinforces something I’ve seen consistently across growing regions and seasons: ongoing learning is one of the most productive investments a grower can make. When we talk about productivity, the conversation often turns quickly to inputs, equipment, or acreage. But some of the most meaningful gains happen off the […]
Earlier this month at Potato Expo 2026 in Texas, I had the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion on potato quality alongside Seed World U.S. Editor (on behalf of Spud Smart) Aimee Nielson and Jeff Douglas of Douglas Agricultural Services. Our goal was simple: help growers with real solutions.Our point of emphasis: prioritizing marketable […]
