Early Potatoes in Estonia Harvested Unusually Early This Year
The first local potatoes have appeared in Estonian stores about a week earlier than usual, attributed to favorable weather and careful farming practices.
Early Estonian potatoes have hit store shelves unusually early this year—approximately a week ahead of previous years. While growing such an early crop demands significant effort from farmers, it has become a race to get potatoes on sale before Midsummer Day.
In the village of Lätkalu, Viljandi County, a potato harvester first entered the field on June 12. Janek Lass, board member of Koorti Kartul, said that such an early harvest surprises even him, but it required substantial work. "We planted the potatoes on April 18, and today we are already harvesting them. This potato needs a bit more attention—it must be sprouted first and then planted. Of course, variety selection is also extremely important," Lass explained.
Currently, the earliest variety, Solist, is growing in Lass's field. He harvested the first crop on June 12, which is exceptionally early. He credits timely actions and favorable weather. "Even for us, this was a surprise. We have never harvested potatoes at such an early stage before, but this year everything has gone well," Lass said.
Lass offers early potatoes to resellers at a price of 2.5 to 3 euros per kilogram. Estonian early potatoes also went on sale this week, for example at the Rimi store in Türi. Store manager Viia Šuman noted, "Local early potatoes went on sale today. Sales are already underway because the price is very attractive—3.49 euros per kilogram. The potatoes are beautiful and high quality; we expect great sales."
Do consumers appreciate early potatoes before Midsummer? "We wouldn't do this if people weren't waiting for them. They are waiting and asking, so we are happy to offer this product," Lass said.
Harvesting of regular fresh potatoes will begin in early July.
