Bacteria and fungal spores are widespread. However these diseases do not become serious if tubers are healthy, mechanical damage is minimized and good sanitation is used.
Cut tubers showing soft rot
An unpleasant odour in storage; degeneration of tubers into a rancid pool of slime.
Begin by planting certified, disease-free tubers and maintain strict sanitation throughout the year. Although infection may be initiated in the field, symptoms may not be visible until harvest. Kill potato foliage 2 weeks before digging. Avoid injury to tubers at harvest. Cull diseased and injured potatoes before storage. Allow potatoes to suberize after harvest. Maintain sanitary conditions and control temperature, humidity, and aeration in the storage area, as tubers are actively respiring.
