Dutch storage technology specialist Omnivent has released its latest advisory for potato growers at the start of the storage season, offering updated recommendations tailored to the current conditions in Northwestern Europe.

The company stressed that the advice is general in nature and outcomes may vary depending on individual farm and storage conditions. “The content has been carefully compiled. However, results may vary depending on the specific conditions of your product and/or shortcomings in storage techniques. If in doubt, please contact us,” said Frank van der Linden, Senior Agronomist and Storage Specialist at Omnivent, who prepared the guidance.

Storage Computer and Drying Conditions

The advisory urges growers to check their storage computer before loading potatoes. While newer Omnivent systems are designed for continuous use, older models such as the ACT-20 may require a manual reset after long periods of inactivity.

Van der Linden highlighted the importance of maximizing natural ventilation opportunities: “It should be possible to cool and dry with outside air at night, and depending on the product temperature, also during the day.” Where natural drying is insufficient due to high humidity, the guidance recommends the use of heaters to reduce relative humidity and extend drying time without overcooling the product.

Drying and Wound Healing

Ensuring potatoes are dried as quickly as possible remains a top priority. According to Omnivent, drying with outside air at 100% ventilation capacity is the most effective method, while internal circulation should only be used when external drying is not feasible.

Growers are reminded that wound healing requires a minimum product temperature of 10°C, ideally between 12°C and 15°C. At this range, the healing process takes between seven and 14 days, depending on conditions.

Harvest and Disease Pressure

Field quality across Northwestern Europe is described as strong this season, with early planting and drought stress leading to timely ripening. However, van der Linden cautioned that foliage remains vulnerable: “Ripening potato foliage loses its vitality and is therefore susceptible to Alternaria solani. As long as the foliage is still green, further protection against late blight and alternaria is necessary, otherwise leaf and tuber damage will occur.”

Stepwise Cooling Strategy

Once the crop is dry, growers should lower storage temperatures gradually – by 0.5°C per day for ware potatoes and 0.3°C per day for seed potatoes – ideally reaching final storage temperatures by early December.

Omnivent’s recommended system settings vary depending on whether growers use the company’s ACT or OmniCuro systems, but all emphasise the importance of dew point monitoring, ventilation management, and careful avoidance of premature overcooling.

Direct Support Available

Omnivent encourages growers to seek professional advice when in doubt. “Don’t wait too long to ask for advice! Our storage specialist Frank van der Linden will be happy to help you. He can visit you to inspect your products and storage techniques and give you storage advice for your potatoes,” the company said.

Growers can learn more at www.omnivent.com or contact van der Linden directly by email at fvdl@omnivent.nl.