The potato plays a central role in Uruguay's agricultural landscape, impacting food security and the economy. Access to high-quality seeds remains problematic for high-tech greenhouse operations. The National Institute of Agricultural Research (INIA) has developed cultivars resistant to PVY viruses and diseases like Phytophthora infestans and Alternaria solani. Despite advancements, quality seed supply poses challenges, especially for smaller farms.
The cost and availability of seeds complicate regeneration efforts, exacerbated by clonally propagated, genetically uniform varieties. Growers often purchase costly external seeds, unsuited to local climates or resistant to region-specific pests and diseases.
Dr. Paula Colnago, an agronomist at the South Regional Experiment Center, Universidad de la República, attended the World Potato Congress in Adelaide, Australia, focusing on research to upgrade seed multiplication systems. Her work involves alternative multiplication techniques and materials. Methods such as semi-autotrophic hydroponics (SAH) and true potato seed (TPS) are explored for their benefits over traditional propagation.
SAH uses micro-propagated tissue to produce plantlets for mini-tuber systems like aeroponics. Although new to Uruguay, it has been trialed successfully elsewhere. TPS offers genetic diversity, reducing disease spread and environmental impacts. It is Cost-effective, it is simple to store, transport, and plant early.
Between 2022 and 2024, Colnago's team evaluated seed tuber production with INIA Arequita and TPS progenies under varied conditions. Collaboration with local farmers and the Uruguayan Agroecology Network has been essential. Farmers engaged in trials, with a role in managing and deciding based on recorded results, empowering them in the seed multiplication process.
Colnago's participation in the World Potato Congress allowed for sharing and professional growth. She noted the importance of sustainability concerns globally. "Improving sustainability in areas like reducing inputs such as fertilizers and crop protectants was an area I hope to explore further," she remarked.
Back in Uruguay, Colnago continues her research. The ongoing project involves six farmers cultivating their seed from TPS, with future expansion planned. The next phase (2025-2028) will refine techniques, focusing on foundation seed production. New collaborations have emerged, including the National Committee for Rural Development and the Native and Creole Seed Network of Uruguay.
Source: SeedWorld
