Weekly Potato Report

Home Market Prices: (Ex-farm) Week beginning 07/06/04

Prices quoted above are direct to packer/merchants in bags (10kgs) or boxes.

Lifting of first early crop is progressing in South Wexford and getting started in Cork. Yields are variable ranging from 5 to 6 t/acre up, with irrigated crops fairing the best. It is estimated that over a third of the first early crop in South Wexford is now cleared. The overall area of first earlies is expected to be marginally down this season. Lifting of Queens is not expected in Wexford until after the 20th of the month. Trade for early crop is reported to be steady. However, the warm spell has dampened the demand for late crop material.

While early crop demand is reported to be increasing in GB, overall demand is disappointing. Total sales at the end of last week were estimated by the BPC to be 10,500 t from 1,500 acres (average yield 7t / acre). This is 1,500 tonnes behind last season.

Fertiliser News

Bulk CAN falling

Bulk CAN prices continue to fall as importers are anxious to move stock. One farmer rang with a price of €140 a tonne out of New Ross, cash on collection. Half tonne bags of CAN are making €170 a tonne with as low as €165 being got for large loads with payment up front. Toplift high N's continues to trade around €185-195 while home blended products on pallets is selling for €215 to €225 a tonne.