Nectar

Irish Breeding for Professional Potato Farming

The 'Nectar' variety, introduced by Irish Potato Marketing (IPM), is the result of extensive research by experts at the Teagasc Oak Park Research Centre. This potato variety was developed in response to the growing demand from processors and retailers for stable, high-quality raw materials. In the European market, 'Nectar' has established itself as a versatile tool, equally effective for fresh culinary use and intensive industrial processing.

Agronomic Profile and Resistance

The breeding success of IPM lies in the development of a resilient plant. 'Nectar' demonstrates robust resistance to late blight, significantly reducing the pesticide load on the field and simplifying crop protection strategies. Key resistance features include:

• High resistance to common scab;
• Minimal susceptibility to blackleg;
• Tolerance to root rot.

These traits make the variety highly predictable for growers, enabling precise harvest planning.

Tuber Technological Characteristics

In terms of visual appeal, 'Nectar' features excellent uniformity. The oval shape of the tubers, combined with smooth, light yellow (cream) skin, ensures an attractive shelf presence. The shallow eyes facilitate mechanical peeling, which is critical for the French fry processing sector.

Key biochemical indicators:

• Dry matter content: 20-21%;
• Starch content: 18-20%;
• Flesh color: Light yellow with excellent taste characteristics.

Market Specialization

Thanks to its balanced dry matter content, 'Nectar' is a premium raw material for the production of French fries and dried potato products. The firm texture prevents the tubers from falling apart during cooking, making them ideal for baking, frying, and general culinary purposes. Industry professionals value this variety for its consistent supply and predictable storage behavior, making it a strategic asset for farms operating under contract with processing facilities.