AHDB Potatoes has released its first estimates of total potato plantings for 2017. This shows the GB area has increased by 4% compared to year-earlier levels to reach 121,000 Ha. This is similar to the areas planted in 2012 and 2013 when the average price for the season was £154 and £127 per tonne respectively. Production figures will depend on yields and there is still plenty of growing time yet. According to the AHDB, a five year average yield of 44.7 tonnes per hectare would result in an increase in production of 4% compared to 2016. But if the very low yielding year of 2012 is taken out, the average rises to 46.7 tonnes per Ha and at this yield production would increase by 8% compared to last year’s levels.