Growing seed potatoes in the Sinai Desert

Summary Seed potatoes grown during winter in the Sinai Desert (Sharm el Sheik) yielded in autumn significantly more (17%) than commercial seed grown in spring. Seeds grown in winter in an agricultural area at Yotvata yielded similarly to the commercial controls. Almost no spread of PVY or PLRV was found at Sharm probably because of the very low alate population there, whereas at Yotvata the incidence of PLRV was over 40% probably as a consequence of a high aphid populations during the growing season. Alate populations were also observed in the Sinai Desert at A-tur, a completely arid area, and at Firan, an isolated oasis where agriculture is practised. At A-tur only a few alatae were trapped, but large numbers were found at Firan, especially starting in March, but not during winter the proposed season for growing seed potatoes. The possibility of growing high quality seed potatoes at Sharm is discussed. Contribution No 107, 1980 series, Volcani Center.