Canadian Research Shows Regenerative Practices Improve Potato Yields and Farm Resilience

Canadian researchers are making strides in regenerative and sustainable agricultural practices (RSAPs) to address climate change adaptation and carbon sequestration in t e countries potato production systems. 

The project, led by Claudia Goyer, a research scientist at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's Fredericton Research and Development Centre, focuses on rebuilding soil health and boosting crop productivity amid challenges like soil degradation and biodiversity loss caused by intensive farming.

Throughout the 2024 growing season, trials were established at four experimental hubs and 15 flagship farms across Canada. Researchers collected samples of soil, plants and air to assess key metrics, including soil physio chemical properties, plant biomass and yield, soil biodiversity and greenhouse gas emissions. These samples were processed in the fall, providing valuable insights into the effectiveness of RSAPs.

Notably, trials at the McCain Foods Farm of the Future in New Brunswick revealed a positive correlation between crop diversity and potato yield. Increasing plant diversification in potato cropping systems not only raised marketable potato yields but also enhanced crop resiliency. Importantly, no increases in soil-borne diseases were observed in the short term, alleviating concerns about potential risks associated with diversification.

Key takeaways from the preliminary results include:

• Comprehensive sampling from all sites to evaluate soil health, biodiversity, and emissions.
• No short term rise in soil-borne diseases with increased plant diversity.
• Improved marketable yields and overall crop resiliency in diversified systems. 

The study underscores the potential of RSAPs to ensure the long-term viability of potato farms by mitigating environmental impacts and promoting sustainable practices. Photos from sites like Simcoe, Ontario, illustrate plot preparations, biofumigation techniques using mustard plants, and post-cultivation results with potatoes, cash crops and green manure.

Plots after cultivation with potatoes, cash crop and green manure in Simcoe, Ontario(Courtesy: Narges Atabaki)

Biofumigation preparation using rototiller for mixing the topsoil and chopped mustard before compacting in Simcoe, Ontario (Courtesy: Narges Atabaki)

Biofumigation preparation using a mower for chopping the mustard plants at Simcoe, Ontario crop rotation plots (Courtesy: Narges Atabaki)

Plots after biofumigation practices in Simcoe, Ontario (Courtesy: Narges Atabaki)

This research aligns with broader efforts to make Canadian agriculture more resilient to climate change, offering practical strategies for farmers to adopt regenerative methods that benefit both the environment and their bottom line.