Potato production in Sri Lanka.

Potato production in Sri Lanka has been increasing since the importation of tablestock was stopped in 1967. Production is now successfully established in four regions: Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, Jaffna and Puttalam. Average yields are ca. 16 T/ha but can reach as high as 40 T/ha. Production still depends on the importation of seed potatoes which are then multiplied under a government program. In order to reduce the cost of seed, which can be up to 50% of the cost of production, a true seed program has been instituted. Weather, poor storage conditions, varying availability of good seed and diseases are the major problems limiting potato production in Sri Lanka. Significant reductions in production and storage problems will be realized with the continued efforts of the Sri Lankan government and international agencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]