Diffuse light stores
Light, storage life and seed vigour
Light is a good alternative to low temperature when storing seed potatoes. By storing seed potatoes in diffuse light the storage life can be prolonged.
Seed potatoes stored in diffuse light give a more vigorous crop than seed that has been stored relatively long in the dark at higher temperatures.
STORAGE LIFE
Loading capacity
The loading capacity of diffuse light stores is low since all tubers have to be exposed to the light. The store in the example has a capacity of 2-2.5 tonnes.
The stores are suitable for small seed units and not for large scale seed production schemes.
Diffuse light store
Protection
Attack by insects may be a problem. Screening of the stores with a small-mesh netting provides some protection.
Conditions
The diffuse light stores are most suitable where temperatures are moderate (no frost and no extreme high temperatures) and seed has to be stored for more than 4 months.
Cases are known where by the use of diffuse light stores farmers were able to keep own seed stocks, instead of getting seed from far away.
Diffuse light store Nepal