The May/June issue of CHIPS offers an insightful look into the challenges and innovations shaping South Africa’s potato industry. Readers can learn more about pepper ringspot virus and its growing significance in crop rotation systems, while a Sandveld conservation trial reveals how rip tillage delivers promising results. Rounding off the issue is an inspiring look at how Potatoes SA is investing in the industry’s future by developing young agricultural talent.
Sako hou jaarvergadering
Sleutelpunte soos die voortgesette produksie van hoë-gehalte aartappels, navorsing, monitering van bestaande projekte en die beskikbaarheid van volhoubare water, was onder die soeklig tydens die jaarvergadering van die Sandveld-aartappelkwekersorganisasie. Lees in die Mei/Junie-uitgawe van CHIPS meer oor wat kenners oor dié indrukwekkende gewas en bedryf te sê het.
Soft rot and blackleg in potatoes
Soft rot and blackleg are rarely caused by a single mistake. They develop when multiple small risk factors accumulate: a wet spell followed by heat, a hurried harvest under marginal conditions, and bruising that seems minor at the time. This article in the May/June issue of CHIPS focusses on practical actions to reduce risk at the points where outbreaks typically begin and where they are most likely to accelerate.
What producers should know about PepRSV
Pepper ringspot virus (PepRSV) has been recognised over the past five years as an emerging virus in South Africa. It is frequently present, but often without visible field symptoms. Although it first drew attention through unusual corky ringspot symptoms in potato tubers in the Northern Cape, ongoing research has shown that the virus is far more widespread than symptoms alone would suggest. It can infect a wide range of other crops commonly grown in rotation with potatoes.
Rip tillage proves its value in 12-year Sandveld potato trial
Potato production in the Sandveld is carried out in deep, sandy soils that are well suited to cultivation. Potatoes require deep, well-drained, and friable soils to allow proper root development and tuber formation. Producers often question whether conservation systems can maintain the high yields required in commercial potato production. To address this question, a long-term conservation farming trial was established in the Sandveld.
Investing in the future
Potatoes SA, with the valued support of AgriSETA, continues to play a meaningful role in developing young talent through its Tertiary Pipeline Programme. The programme aims to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals within the potato industry and the broader agricultural sector. Since its inception, it has supported 71 graduates, bridging the gap between academic training and industry requirements. Read more about the placement of ten graduates into structured workplace experience opportunities in the May/June issue of CHIPS.
To read more, get your online copy of CHIPS May/June, available as a PDF here or as an interactive flipbook at https://digimags.agriorbit.com/books/CHIPS-May_June-2026-digimag/, as well as on Potatoes SA’s website at www.potatoes.co.za/chips. To subscribe, phone Beauty Mthombeni on 064 890 6941 or SMS ‘Subscribe’ and your phone number to 064 890 6941.
