Organic potato production is one of the most challenging undertakings for farmers. Yields typically reach 50 to 65% of those achieved conventionally. The barriers are many: nitrogen deficiency, persistent pest pressure—particularly from the Colorado potato beetle—and a range of diseases including scab, rhizoctonia, viruses, and late blight. 

Ellenberger Organic Farm stands out as a beacon of resilience and innovation in this field. As the only organic seed potato producer in Ontario—and one of the few across Canada—this mixed farm operation offers a rare window into what it takes to produce quality organic seed. With over two decades of experience, Henry Ellenberger cultivates 8 to 10 potato varieties across five acres of sandy, rocky loam, supplying over 200 organic growers and gardeners annually.

At this field day, Henry will share the practical strategies, insights, and cautionary tales he’s learned over the years. He’ll cover the critical steps needed to maintain production and healthy seed under organic management—including choosing the right varieties, managing disease pressure, and preparing for CFIA seed certification.

He’ll be joined by Hugo Martorell (SeedChange), who led the recent publication of an organic potato breeding guide in Quebec. Together, they’ll explore how regionally adapted, early-maturing, and disease-resistant varieties can improve resilience and productivity in low-input systems.

Topics include:

• Key traits to prioritize when selecting organic potato varieties
• Where and how to access varieties and clean nuclear stock
• Step-by-step guide to CFIA seed certification (disinfection, bacterial ring rot sampling, on-farm inspections)
• How to manage seed classes in the field and in the warehouse
• Field-based techniques to detect and rogue infected plants early
• The economics of small-scale seed potato production and marketing 

Whether you’re a new grower considering potato seed production or an experienced farmer refining your approach, this event offers a chance to learn from one of Canada’s most seasoned organic seed potato producers.

Please note that participants are welcome to bring their own lunch to picnic at the farm and will be required to wash shoes before touring. Please wear shoes that have not recently been in other potato or tomato fields.

This event is hosted in partnership with the Bauta Family Initiative on Canadian Seed Security (SeedChange).