Usage of SUBSTOR model in potato yield prediction

The study focused on evaluation of SUBSTOR-Potato model and its utilization in potato grows management. The experimental field used for the model evaluation was located in Zabcice-South Moravian region with altitudes of 179 m above the sea level. Tuber yield served as reference for the model evaluation. Nine years experimental data set (1994-2002) was used for the model evaluation. Rosara cultivar represented very early growing potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in the experiment. Comparison between observed and simulated tuber yields presented the evaluation process of SUBSTOR-Potato model. Tuber yields simulated by the model showed excellent accuracy (R-2 = 0.97), but only for four of nine tested years (1997,1998, 1999 and 2002). The model tended to underestimate the tuber yield for unsuitable conditions (i.e. dry years-low amount of precipitation and its disordered distribution during the growing season or higher mean air temperature). Study proved SUBSTOR-Potato model as suitable for utilization in potato management: however, potential differences might be expected while using the model under extreme weather conditions. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.