Dont rush into spuds

20 November 1998

Dont rush into spuds

GROWERS have been warned against rushing into potatoes on the back of good prices this year.

"Due to high prices, non-potato growing farmers are already eyeing up the situation, especially where their other crops have fallen well short of budget," notes William Donald, chairman of producer co-op Anglian Produce.

At the companys annual dinner in Norfolk, he urged AP members to advise non-potato growing neighbours about the pitfalls that often follow a season of shortages. Long-term growers were also warned to avoid increasing their area next year, unless contracted.

Short supplies this season and difficulties across Europe have al-ready seen seed tighten and prices rise dramatically, he said. &#42