Analyis of yield determining factors in the potato (Solanum tuberosum) with special reference to Argentina

This review analyzes the yield determining factors in the potato based on different production situations, defined as: potential, attainable and actual yield. The potential yield of the crop is determined by several factors that are not possible to modify by the growers, such as: altitude, latitude, temperature, photoperiod, radiation and cultivar. The attainable yield is limited by factors that can be modified such as labour, seed age and water and nutrient availability. Finally, the actual yield is that reduced by the presence of weeds, pests, diseases and pollutants. These factors that determine, limit or reduce yield have only been partially analyzed at world or local level. Hence, the purpose of this review is to analyze for Solanum tuberosum sp. tuberosum all these factors when the tubers are used for seed, ware or industry, with special reference to the Argentinian situation.

Key words: potatoes, yield, quality, seed tubers, processing industry