The potato plant
The potato used for consumption is a tuber bearing herbaceous plant.
Main plant parts are:
haulm (foliage), tubers and roots.
Foliage
The main functions of the foliage (leaves and stems) are photosynthesis and respiration. The foliage is the "factory" of the plant in which the carbohydrates are produced. These carbohydrates are used for haulm- and tuber growth. The foliage is not suitable for consumption, but is occasionally used as cattle food or fuel.
HAULM (FOLIAGE)
Tubers
The tubers are used for consumption and for reproduction.
TUBERS
Partitioning of Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are used for the haulm growth and tuber growth. Haulm is needed for photosynthesis and has to be kept functional for a sufficient period. In an efficient production the major part of the carbohydrates is used for tuber growth.
A relation between haulm growth and tuber growth exists.
A too abundant haulm growth delays tuber growth. It is avoided to build the "carbohydrate factory" larger than needed for production.
PARTITIONING CARBOHYDRATES
Roots
The roots are essential for the uptake of water and nutrients from the soil.
ROOTS