Institut für Züchtungsforschung an landwirtschaftlichen Kulturen
The demands of organic farming systems on potato varieties are differing in parts significantly from conventional cropping systems. A high degree of resistance against biotic stress factors like late blight, as well as effective weed suppression and nutrient efficiency are highly important. Besides, high yield and quality stability under changing climatic conditions are important as well. In addition, excellent taste, smooth skin and processing quality are essential for marketing. This project aims to develop basic material for breeding new varieties for organic farming. To safeguard good yields in organic production, new breeding clones carrying improved tolerance against biotic and abiotic stresses are essential. Testing and selection of breeding material in several years and in varying organic environments ensures the identification of clones adapted to organic cultivation systems. A close cooperation of different research institutes and breeding companies allows a wide utilisation of genetic resources. In the scientific part of the project, nutrient and water use efficiency, as well as heat tolerance will be further investigated in order to sustainably implement a conservation of resources and thus of the environment through plant breeding. The network build here encloses the whole value chain of potato production from plant breeding to potato production on farm and finally up to the processing industry. The expertise of all project partners allows the development of novel varieties with a special attention to the quality demands for organic farming and processing companies.
Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture
