AGATA POTATO
Quick Overview
The Agata potato is a Dutch variety known for its early maturation and appealing bright, smooth yellow skin. It is a high-yielding potato with uniform tubers, making it a popular choice for growers and consumers alike. This variety is celebrated for its versatility in cooking and its attractive appearance on the plate.
- Early maturing variety, ideal for quick harvests.
- Features yellow skin and flesh with a smooth texture.
- Known for high yields and consistent tuber size.
Origin & History
The Agata potato was developed in the Netherlands, bred by Svalöf Weibull A.B. in Emmeloord in 1976. It originated from a cross between the BM 52-72 and Sirco varieties, designed to produce a robust, early potato suited to various growing conditions. Since its introduction, it has become widely cultivated, particularly in southern Europe, including France, Spain, and Italy, and was registered in the French Official Catalogue of Plant Species and Varieties in 1990.
- Bred in Emmeloord, Netherlands, by Svalöf Weibull A.B.
- Result of crossing BM 52-72 and Sirco in 1976.
- Gained prominence in European agriculture, especially in the south.
Specifications
Agata potatoes are characterized by their oval-shaped tubers, which have very shallow eyes and a low dry matter content. They mature very early in the growing season, typically within 70 to 90 days, and are not sensitive to harvest damage or dry rot. The variety is grown from certified disease-free seed potatoes, planted 4 inches deep and spaced 12 inches apart in rows 2-3 feet apart, thriving in well-drained, fertile loam with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
- Oval tubers with shallow eyes and smooth skin.
- Matures in approximately 70-90 days.
- Requires full sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth.
Key Characteristics
The Agata potato stands out for its bright, smooth yellow skin and firm yellow flesh, paired with a very short dormancy period. It exhibits strong resistance to spraing, Yn-virus, Yntn-virus, and golden nematode (RO 1 and 4), though it is susceptible to Erwinia, common scab, late blight foliage, and wart disease (2 and 6). Its high pack-out and tolerance to bruising make it a reliable choice for both conventional and organic farming.
- Bright, smooth skin and firm, yellow flesh.
- Resistant to certain viruses and nematodes, but vulnerable to some diseases.
- High pack-out and bruise tolerance, suitable for organic cultivation.
Health Benefits
Agata potatoes provide a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen production, with a medium-sized potato offering about 30% of the daily value. They contain potassium, which aids heart, muscle, and nervous system function, and deliver dietary fiber, particularly in the skin, promoting digestive health. With only 110 calories per medium serving and no fat, cholesterol, or sodium, they offer a nutritious, energy-rich option for a balanced diet.
- Rich in vitamin C (30% daily value per medium potato) for immunity and skin health.
- High potassium content supports cardiovascular and muscle function.
- Fiber in the skin aids digestion; low-calorie and nutrient-dense.