Potato seed storage remains a challenge due to temperature fluctuations and excessive light exposure.

These two factors lead to seed deterioration and reduced availability of quality seed materials.

For communities reliant on potato production, adopting effective seed storage methods is crucial.

Sammy Sang, a farmer in Kuresoi South, recalls facing significant losses when storing potato seeds in gunny bags.

Sammy Sang' outside his diffuse light store in Kuresoi South Subcounty.

Photo credit: COURTESY

In an interview with Mtaa Wangu, he says the tubers often rotted, forcing him to purchase replacements and increase his production costs.

Seven years ago, with guidance from technical officers, Sang’ built a Diffused-Light Storage (DLS) facility.

This adaptable, on-farm storage solution uses indirect natural light and proper ventilation to control sprout growth and minimize storage losses, eliminating the need for low-temperature systems.

“With the DLS facility, I can now store potato seeds in optimal conditions, leading to improved harvests,” he says.

The DLS method ensures sprout quality by relying on indirect sunlight and ventilation to produce short, firm, and coloured sprouts.

Constructing the DLS facility cost Sang Approximately Sh. 100,000, significantly expanding his storage capacity.

"The store holds six tons of potato seeds compared to just a few bags before," he notes.

In addition to using the stored seeds for his farm, Sang’ sells them to other farmers, selling the potato seeds between Sh. 2,500 and Sh. 3,500 per 50 kg bag, depending on the variety and generation which complements his income from crop production.

For farmers unable to construct similar facilities, Sang’ assists by sprouting their seed potatoes during periods when his storage is unoccupied.

He believes that potato farming has immense potential, especially with emerging technologies, enhancing value chains and increasing farmers' incomes.

Kuresoi farmer's innovative solution to effective potato seed storage

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Muthoni Wanjiku