Tubers should be handled as gently as possible at all times with minimal drops. Harvesters should be adjusted and operated so that all chains are full. Carry enough soil over the primary digger chain to adequately cushion potatoes. Maintaining full chains will minimize bruising. Proper harvester operation calls for skillfully balancing ground speed with blade depth and proper chain speed.
Avoid harvesting when soil temperature is below about 45o F at tuber depth. Cold tubers are very susceptible to shatter bruise and mechanical injury. During cold weather, harvest later in the day and continue into early evening when soils are warmest. Avoid wet, muddy situations when possible. Wet or mechanically damaged tubers tend to store poorly.
As a general rule, more potatoes are lost to decay in storage than in the field in Oregon. The storage should be fully operational prior to harvest and all systems should be functioning soon after the crop is in place. A good storage will provide the proper air temperature, humidity, and air movement necessary for crop health. Do not attempt to store wet or diseased potatoes without forced-air ventilation.
Harvest
Vine
Killing
Production
Management
Potatoes,
General