HOUSTON, TX – As MountainKing readies for its fall harvest, early tests from its fields in Colorado’s San Luis Valley offer encouraging signs for several of the brand’s gourmet varieties including its yellow-flesh varietals.
“The 2021 crop outlook is very bright,” says Andreas Trettin, director of marketing for MountainKing Potatoes. “The ability of our farms to evaluate prior season successes and setbacks have provided us with a great road map. Modifications were made to fertilization and irrigation plans as well as land changes amongst our varieties. These adjustments continue to breed improvement year after year.”
As for this year’s crop, Trettin says MountainKing’s early harvest test digs indicate impressive potato sizes with minimal bruising.
“The quality is extraordinary,” he says.
Of equal significance, this year MountainKing dramatically increased acreage for its popular yellow-flesh varietals as shoppers continue to shift from traditional white-flesh reds and russets to more flavorful yellow-flesh types. Acreage expanded by 94% for its Butter Russets, 30% for its Creamer Reds and 14% for its Butter Golds. In total, MountainKing allocated more than 1,200 acres for its yellow-flesh varietals. The company also dedicated more than 400 acres for its small potatoes.
“We spend a lot of time in the offseason examining IRI data and customer feedback on the different varieties,” Trettin explains. “Our increased acreage directly reflects customer purchasing habits and national potato sales trends.”
MountainKing’s Creamers and Fingerlings will be available by the end of September. Its Butter Reds and Butter Russets are expected to be available by the end of October in time for the holiday season.
MountainKing Potatoes is one of the world’s largest growers of high-flavor potato varieties. To learn more, call (713) 923-5807 or visit www.MountainKing.com.
