Potatoes are commonly grown in the UK for processing into potato crisps. They grow best in well-drained, loamy soil that is prepared in the autumn or winter. Seed potatoes are chitted or sprouted before planting in rows from late February to late March depending on the variety. The crops are earthed up, irrigated, and harvested once the haulms or green tops have been removed to prevent disease and aid mechanical harvesting. Factors like pests, diseases, water availability and frost can impact potato yields.

19. Potato pest and diseases. Blight is a fungal disease. There are a number of viral diseases, including Tobacco Mosaic Virus. Colorado Beetle is a notifiable pest.