  |
Most seed lots are Post-Harvest tested in a Southern climate. At least 400 randomly selected tubers from each qualifying seed potato lot are collected and sent to a Southern climate to be grown out and examined by Canadian Food Inspection Agency Seed Potato Inspectors. The main emphasis of the Post-Harvest test is the detection of viral infections that may have occurred during the production season through their transmission by insects or farm machinery. Infections of this type infect the new tubers but rarely express visual symptoms until the following growing season. The Post-Harvest test attempts to identify where and to what extent these infections have occurred. The main diseases for which readings are taken include:
The Post Harvest test also reports on the presence of foreign varieties in seed lots. Results of the Post Harvest test are published in February and can be obtained from the grower. |
 |
