If you are asked to name a popular vegetable, the first vegetable that comes to your mind is potato. We have been familiar with potatoes since childhood. You can say that rice, fish, and potatoes are the main food of Bengalis. Not only Bengalis. Potato is a staple food in many countries around the world. Potatoes are very readily available to us. No matter how much the price goes up, we prefer potatoes over other vegetables. Potatoes are the favorite food of children-teenagers-old people. In addition, the unique nutrients in potatoes also help in our physical growth. For example,
Potato helps in digestion and helps in reducing various stomach problems.
The nutrients in potatoes also benefit gout and arthritis.
Potatoes contain potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin 'C', which provide relief from inflammation in the body's digestive system.
Potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin B12. Which helps to keep the heart healthy.
Vitamin A and antioxidants present in potatoes also help to increase the immunity of the body.
Carbohydrates present in potatoes help in gaining weight. You can eat potatoes regularly to gain weight.
The total production of potatoes in the financial year 2018-19 was: 96,55,082
The total production of potatoes in FY 2019-20 was: 96,05,624
The total production of potatoes in FY 2020-21 was: 98,87,242
The total production of potatoes in FY 2021-22 was: 1,01,44,835
The total production of potatoes in FY 2021-23 was: 1,04,31,736
Potato storage capacity in 365 cold storages in 43 districts of Bangladesh is more than 30 lakh tons.
At present, potato cultivation is being done in all parts of the country, except for a few areas in the south-western region. However, most potatoes are produced in the Munshiganj, Bogra, and Rangpur districts. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, potato is the second main source of food energy in Bangladesh. Bangladeshi people consume 23 kg of potatoes per capita per year, which is eight kg more than India.
Bangladesh is ranked among the top 10 countries in the world in the production of 22 agricultural products. It includes products like rice, lentils, potatoes, onions, and tea, as well as different types of fruits. In the last decade, Bangladesh has been added to the top list in the production of some products such as pumpkin, cauliflower, and homogeneous vegetables. Two decades ago, Bangladesh was the 20th largest producer of potatoes. After that, Bangladesh came to number 7 after leaving behind 13 countries like Canada, Turkey, and Poland one by one. According to FAO data, 9.8 million tons of potatoes were produced in Bangladesh in 2021.
Let's know about growing potatoes:
When is the right time to grow potatoes in Bangladesh?
The best time to plant potatoes is from the first week of November to the end. As days go by, plant growth slows down in winter, and tuber formation begins before plants get too big. It reduces the number of tubers. Tuber formation is best at 15°C in winter. Potato seeds can be planted till the second week of December, but the yield also decreases proportionally.
How to grow potatoes in Bangladesh?
Potatoes are an important crop in Bangladesh and are cultivated through various methods and practices. Here's an overview of how potatoes are typically cultivated in Bangladesh:
1. Land Preparation: The first step in potato cultivation is land preparation. Farmers typically plow and harvest the land to break up the soil and create a suitable seedbed. This helps improve soil aeration and drainage.
2. Variety Selection: Farmers choose potato varieties based on factors such as climate, market demand, and disease resistance. Popular varieties in Bangladesh include Diamant, Cardinal, Granola, and others.
3. Seed Preparation: Potatoes are usually propagated using seed tubers, which are small pieces of the potato that contain at least one eye (a bud). These seed tubers are cut into smaller pieces, typically weighing around 30-40 grams each. They are then treated with fungicides to prevent disease.
4. Planting: Potato planting is typically done in rows or beds. The seed tubers are planted at a certain depth, usually 5-10 cm deep, and spaced adequately to allow for proper growth and tuber development. The spacing depends on the variety and local practices.
5. Fertilization: Farmers apply fertilizers to provide essential nutrients to the growing potato plants. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the primary nutrients required, and their application rates depend on soil tests and local recommendations.
6. Irrigation: An adequate water supply is crucial for potato cultivation. In Bangladesh, where monsoon rains may not provide consistent moisture, irrigation is often essential to ensure proper tuber development. Drip irrigation and furrow irrigation are commonly used methods.
7. Weed Control: Weeds can compete with potato plants for nutrients and space. Farmers use various methods to control weeds, including manual weeding, herbicides, and mulching.
8. Pest and Disease Management: Potato crops in Bangladesh are susceptible to various pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, potato tuber moths, and nematodes, while diseases like late blight and early blight can affect the crop. Integrated pest management (IPM) practices are often employed, which may include the use of pesticides when necessary.
9. Hilling: As potato plants grow, the soil is hilled up around the base of the plants to encourage tuber formation and protect the developing potatoes from sunlight (which can cause greening and bitterness).
10. Harvesting: Potatoes are typically harvested when the plants have reached maturity, which is indicated by the yellowing and dying back of the foliage. Harvesting is usually done manually using hand tools like spades or forks. Care is taken to avoid damaging the tubers during this process.
11. Storage: After harvesting, potatoes are cured and stored in suitable conditions to extend their shelf life. Proper storage helps prevent sprouting and rot.
12. Market Distribution: Once harvested and stored, potatoes are transported to local markets or sold to wholesalers, retailers, or processing industries.
Potato cultivation in Bangladesh is influenced by the region's climate, including temperature and rainfall patterns, and practices may vary accordingly. Farmers often rely on traditional knowledge and modern agricultural techniques to improve potato yields and quality. Additionally, the government and agricultural organizations provide support and guidance to farmers to enhance potato production in the country.
How are potatoes stored?
Potatoes should be stored properly to maximize their shelf life and maintain their quality. Here are some guidelines for storing potatoes:
1. Cool, Dark Place: Potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark place, ideally between 45-50°F (7-10°C). Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the cold temperatures can convert the starches in the potatoes into sugars, resulting in an undesirable taste and texture.
2. Dry Environment: Potatoes should be kept in a dry environment. Moisture can lead to rot and spoilage. Avoid storing them in plastic bags, as they can trap moisture. Instead, use a paper bag or a perforated plastic bag to allow for air circulation.
3. Keep Them Dry: Before storing potatoes, make sure they are dry. Excess moisture can encourage mold growth. You can gently pat them dry with a paper towel if needed.
4. Well-Ventilated Container: If you're storing potatoes in a bin or a container, make sure it is well-ventilated. This helps to maintain air circulation and prevents the buildup of moisture.
5. Avoid Sunlight: Potatoes should be stored away from direct sunlight. Exposure to light can cause potatoes to produce a toxic compound called solanine, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.
6. Inspect Regularly: Check your stored potatoes regularly for signs of spoilage, such as sprouting, soft spots, or mold. Remove any spoiled potatoes to prevent them from affecting the others.
7. Separate from Onions: Do not store potatoes with onions. Both release gases that can accelerate spoilage in the other. It's best to keep them in separate storage areas.
8. Avoid Freezing: Potatoes can become mushy and develop an unappealing texture if they freeze. If the temperature in your storage area is at risk of dropping below freezing, it's essential to move your potatoes to a warmer location.
By following these storage guidelines, you can extend the shelf life of your potatoes and enjoy them at their best quality. Proper storage will help prevent sprouting, rot, and the development of off-flavors or textures.
What month does the new potato come on the market?
Since an improved variety of potatoes takes 80-100 days to reach maturity, we can assume that new potatoes arrive in the Bangladesh market in the last week of February.
According to international data, The Potato Market size is estimated at USD 111.83 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 132.81 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 3.50% during the forecast period (2023-2028).
Thank you For Read Properly
