Introduction
Hollow heart is an internal disorder where a 'lens' or 'star'-shaped cavity forms in the tuber. It appears to be caused by an abrupt change in tuber growth rate which usually occurs after a period of stress. Water, heat stress and associated calcium deficiency appear to have a role in the development of hollow heart.
The crisp variety Atlantic and the French fry variety Russet Burbank are prone to hollow heart but if conditions are right most varieties can be affected.
Tubers of the variety Atlantic with hollow heart
Hollow heart is an important problem for the potato industry as payments from processors and washer-packers for fresh market potatoes may be reduced.
Tubers with hollow heart