Innovative potato production technology and its influence on quality of tubers

Abstract

The objective of the paper was to compare the technologies, techniques of reproduction and their use in seed production of potatoes. The paper describes the use of the most important achievements of biotechnology, advanced breeding methods and emerging technologies for solving practical problems in potato cultivation and increasing their resistance to diseases and improving their quality. The most important, safe techniques for the propagation of potato propagating material is in vitro micro-propagation. Among alternatives to conventional propagated potatoes, the Micropropagation, through the aeroponic system (soilless cultivation in the air) is a prospective method of potato cultivation in terms of food safety and sustainability, as the cultivation of plants happens in the air, without any substrate. The nutrient solution is injected into the root zone at short intervals. The biggest advantages are higher yield with optimal quality, reduced consumption of water and nutrients, operation in a closed system and safety for the environment. Thus, an effective method of cooling the root zone and improving plant growth at higher temperatures under glass, signifies advantages making it widely be used in agricultural practice and in the micro-tubers production, offering a high reproductive rate as the tuber harvesting is possible for several times during the growing season and pathogen-free propagation material. The emerging technology enabled methods enable the production of seed potatoes in areas unsuitable for agriculture, unfavourable climatic conditions, or tropics, and allows for considerable water savings.