Potato growers are placing greater emphasis on ventilation systems as they seek to maintain quality over longer storage periods.
The issue will feature prominently at PotatoEurope 2026, which takes place on 9-10 September in Springe, near Hannover. The event will focus on how storage systems can support consistent supply across fresh, processing and seed markets.
Loose bulk storage remains standard for potatoes destined for processing. Box storage now dominates for seed and table potatoes. Both systems rely on ventilation to control temperature and maintain quality.
Cost and control
Bulk storage offers lower costs and efficient handling. But large stack heights can increase pressure damage, reducing marketable yield. Ventilation design plays a central role. Systems vary in how they move and distribute air through the crop.
Topics to be examined will include above-floor ducts to offer flexibility. Under-floor systems create a flat surface that improves handling. They cost more to install but require less maintenance and do not reduce storage capacity.
Growers often position ducts perpendicular to loading to improve airflow. Fully slatted floors allow air to move evenly from below. They provide consistent ventilation across the store and allow operators to adjust airflow where needed.
Ventilation options vary in complexity. Natural airflow systems rely on ambient conditions. They reduce energy use but limit control. More advanced systems push air through stacked boxes but require careful setup for even airflow.
Balancing airflow, energy use and crop condition is especially important when margins are tight. Excessive airspeed or uneven distribution can reduce effectiveness – adding to costs while reducing quality.
PotatoEurope’s technical programme will explore all these challenges and more. It will bring together growers, researchers and specialists to share practical approaches to storage and crop management.
For full details, visit potatoeurope.de