Determining the cessation point for irrigation in potato cultivation is crucial for optimizing tuber development and preventing post-harvest storage issues. This practice involves carefully monitoring soil moisture levels and plant maturity to identify the ideal time to discontinue watering.
Properly timed irrigation cessation promotes skin set, which reduces bruising and disease susceptibility during harvesting and storage. This ultimately improves crop quality, extends shelf life, and maximizes profitability. Historically, farmers relied on experience and local knowledge; however, modern techniques incorporate scientific monitoring for precision.