In 2024, potato farming globally faces increasing challenges driven by unpredictable climatic conditions, rising disease pressure, and growing market competition. Climate change, in particular, has impacted the yield and quality of crops, with extreme weather events such as droughts and unexpected heavy rains significantly disrupting potato production. This has led to shortages and heightened the need for sustainable farming practices to secure food supply and protect livelihoods.

The recent collaboration between Green Iraq and MNG highlights the critical need for optimizing potato farming practices in Iraq. With a focus on enhancing agricultural efficiency and addressing technical equipment issues, the partnership aims to improve both yield and quality. 

In this article, we will explore the results of the recent field tests and discuss how MNG’s agricultural products are being tested to support a more efficient and productive approach in Iraq’s potato cultivation.

Current Farming Challenges and Solutions in Iraq’s Potato Cultivation

Green Iraq, managing 2,500 hectares of land dedicated to potato farming, collaborated with MNG to explore ways to improve their agricultural practices. The focus of this partnership was to optimize planting practices and soil treatment methods, with the goal of improving efficiency and boosting crop productivity. With plans to diversify potato varieties and adjust field locations, Green Iraq sought sustainable methods to boost productivity.
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MNG’s team assessed the existing equipment, advised on soil treatment strategies, and supervised the setup and planting of a demonstration plot. These initial actions laid the groundwork for further technical adjustments and improvements.
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Key Insights on Potato Trial Setup and Execution

The potato trial took place on Green Iraq’s farmland in late September 2024. The focus was on optimizing planting techniques and evaluating the application of MNG’s agricultural products. The Lady Rosetta potato variety — a high-yielding type commonly used in processing and chip production — was selected for the trial, with an anticipated yield of 50 tons per hectare.
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At the beginning of the trial, MNG experts conducted soil sampling and analysis. Based on the results, the appropriate soil fertilizer and its dosage were determined. During the trial, the following MNG products were applied: CaMgS at a rate of 160 kg/ha, and Aminotreat at 2.25 kg per ton of potatoes to ensure effective seed tuber treatment and preparation for planting.

MNG’s CaMgS fertilizer is designed to improve soil health by balancing pH levels, promoting better nutrient absorption, and supporting plant resilience. Additionally, it neutralizes soil acidity, which is essential for optimal crop performance. The Aminotreat, rich in amino acids, promotes tuber sprouting and root development, helping plants resist environmental stresses like heat and disease.

The trial also involved evaluating the performance of existing equipment, and some technical adjustments were made to improve planting efficiency. Further trials are planned to refine these findings.
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Trial Results and Key Observations

The potato trial conducted on Green Iraq’s farmland revealed important findings, particularly regarding the performance of MNG’s products regardless equipment conditions:

• Aminotreat Application: Although Aminotreat was applied manually, the product was effectively used across the seed tubers, ensuring adequate preparation before planting. While some challenges with application were noted, the treatment still provided valuable support for tuber sprouting and root development.
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• Fertilizer Distribution: CaMgS fertilizer was applied based on experimental dosage due to the equipment lacking precise dosage control. While exact distribution patterns were difficult to assess due to blending with the soil surface, the fertilizer was spread across the target area as planned.
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• Equipment Challenges: Some equipment malfunctions, such as worn parts and inconsistent planting depth, affected the planting process. However, MNG’s products performed well under these conditions, demonstrating their robustness. Additional trials are planned to refine the equipment and further improve the application processes.

The trial results demonstrate the versatility and effectiveness of MNG’s products, even when facing equipment challenges. Aminotreat and CaMgS fertilizer performed consistently under suboptimal conditions, showcasing their robustness and adaptability in real-world farming environments. These encouraging results highlight the potential for MNG’s solutions to significantly improve agricultural productivity, especially when combined with further refinement of equipment and processes.
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This success has not only provided valuable insights for immediate improvements but has also laid the groundwork for a long-term collaboration focused on sustainable agricultural practices. Both teams are committed to optimizing future trials, ensuring that MNG’s products continue to deliver meaningful benefits for farmers seeking higher yields and more resilient crops.