Storage Characteristics of Potatoes

Potatoes have a distinct physiological dormancy period after harvest. It generally lasts 2 to 4 months and varies depending on the variety. Generally speaking, late-maturing varieties have a short dormancy period, while early-maturing varieties have a long dormancy period.

Different degrees of maturity also lead to different dormancy lengths: immature potato tubers harvested midway through growth have a longer dormancy period than tubers of equal size harvested at maturity. Storage temperature also affects the length of the dormancy period; tubers stored under relatively suitable low-temperature conditions have a longer dormancy period, and low temperatures during the early storage stage are especially beneficial for prolonging dormancy. A storage temperature of 3 to 5 degrees C is generally considered suitable, and the suitable relative humidity for storage is 80% to 85%. Too high a humidity tends to increase rotting, while too low a humidity increases water loss and raises losses. Light can promote potato sprouting and increase the solanine glycoside content in the tubers. After consumption it has toxic effects on humans and livestock, so light-avoidance measures should be taken when storing potatoes.