Alturas: A multi-purpose, russet potato cultivar with high yield and tuber specific gravity

American Journal of Potato Research, Sep/Oct 2003 by Novy, R G, Corsini, D L, Love, S L, Pavek, J J, Et al

Biochemical and Nutritional Characteristics

Tubers of Alturas, Ranger Russet, and Russet Burbank, grown at Aberdeen, Idaho, were analyzed over a three-year period to assess biochemical and nutritional components (Table 6). Alturas was higher in dry matter content and protein than either Ranger Russet or Russet Burbank. While sucrose levels were higher in Alturas than in the check cultivars, reducing sugars were lower than for Ranger Russet and identical to those of Russet Burbank. Vitamin C content was comparable to that of Russet Burbank and lower than Ranger Russet. Total glycoalkaloids for Alturas were low at 2.8 mg/100g tuber fresh weight.

Management

Studies on management practices optimal for production of Alturas were conducted primarily in southeastern Idaho. However, the results of these studies also provide growers in other production regions with a foundation for the development of management guidelines specific for their locale.

Seed-spacing trials indicate that optimal spacings of Alturas seedpieces on 91 cm rows are (1) seed production-25.4 to 30.5 cm, (2) commercial-33 to 38 cm; spacing of >38 cm may be warranted if Alturas is to be used for processing into french fries (Love et al. 2003).

Nitrogen management recommendations were developed based on an experimental trial, combined with predictions based on growth habit; recommendations were validated in their successful adoption in commercial production. Total nitrogen application recommendations for Alturas are approximately 40% less than those required for Russet Burbank (Love et al. 2003). In southeastern Idaho, where potential potato yields are 33.6 to 44.8 mt/ha (300 to 400 cwt/A), it is recommended that 118 to 163 kg N/ha (105 to 145 lbs N/acre) be applied. In shorter season seed-growing regions, all nitrogen can be applied pre-plant. In commercial production areas of Idaho, nitrogen application may be split into a pre-plant application and a second application that should be made no later than 31 July. Nitrogen applied after the July deadline will delay maturity of this already late-maturing cultivar, creating difficulties with vine kill, tuber maturation and subsequent bulking. Problems with vine kill and tuber maturation also may be experienced if Alturas is planted the year immediately following alfalfa. Continued mineralization of nitrogen late into the summer following the incorporation of alfalfa residue may be sufficient to delay Alturas' maturation. No information is yet available on critical petiole nitrate levels.

No detailed research has been conducted regarding the phosphorus, potassium, or micronutrient requirements of Alturas. For these nutrients, it is recommended that growers follow guidelines developed in their area for Russet Burbank. On the basis of replicated trial observations, the seasonal water requirements of Alturas are 15% to 20% greater than those of Russet Burbank (Steve Love, pers comm).

No sensitivity to metribuzin, when applied at labeled rates, has been observed in Alturas. No injury has been observed on Alturas with the use of other herbicides currently registered for use on potatoes. The critical period for weed control in Alturas is prior to row closure; after that period, Alturas produces a vine that competes with most mid- to late-season weeds.