ASCORBIC ACID IN POTATOES GROWN IN NEW BRUNSWICK

Values for the ascorbic acid content in the tubers of nine potato varieties have been compared. The effects of different fertilizers have been studied. Location of plots throughout the province was considered. Changes in ascorbic acid content due to tuber maturity and storage time have been measured at regular intervals. The relative amounts of ascorbic acid in the stem and eye ends of tubers have been found. Effects of top-killers on the ascorbic acid content of tubers were noted. No relationship was observed between the ascorbic acid content and either variety or fertilizer. The highest values for ascorbic acid were obtained in August. Losses during maturity and storage were continuous and fairly regular. Top-killers produced no apparent effect on the ascorbic acid content of tubers. The eye end of the potato tuber contained approximately 20% more ascorbic acid than the stem end.