Early maturing crops and cracking concerns dominate Irish fields as Europe sees drought relief

Aug 06, 2025

The Irish potato market has shown little change this week, with consumption and retail sales remaining stable across the country, according to the latest update issued by the Irish Farmers Association (IFA).

While the pace of sales has held firm, attention is now turning to the fields, where this season’s potato crops appear to be maturing ahead of schedule. Growers in several regions report that many crops are expected to reach desiccation stage before the end of August. However, industry concerns persist regarding the limited availability of approved desiccation chemicals, placing added pressure on growers navigating the final stages of the growing cycle.

Although early indications suggest good tuber set and promising yields, agronomists caution that it is still too early to predict final outcomes with certainty. Notably, a growing number of reports highlight cracking issues in tubers—a phenomenon likely linked to the drought conditions experienced earlier this year. The inconsistent rainfall patterns may have stressed crops during key development stages, contributing to these quality challenges.

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Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.