Tablestock Potato Production Using Narrower Row Widths

Demand for tablestock potatoes with a smaller tuber size profile is increasing. A study assessing the effect of narrow row width on fresh market yield and economic value was conducted in 2022 and 2023, near Becker, MN, and Inkster, ND, using a split-plot design with factorial arrangement of treatments. Five row widths (71, 76, 81, 86, and 91 cm as the standard industry row width) and four cultivars (Agata, Musica, Modoc, and Red Norland) were evaluated. No differences in total yield or A-size tuber yield (≥ 5.7 to < 8 cm diameter) were found for row width or the interaction of row width with cultivar. However, B-size tuber yield (≥ 4.8 to < 5.7 diameter) increased by 31% (71 cm) and 23% (76 cm), compared to 91 cm standard row width; gross returns from B-size tubers also increased by 24% and 16%, respectively. Increased B-size tuber yield enhanced net returns by $918 to $1,370 ha⁻¹. Narrower row widths of 71 to 76 cm increased B-size tuber yield and net returns compared to 91 cm industry standard.