The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic gain for processing quality of potato tubers in different growing conditions of the southern region of Brazil. Experiments were carried out during summer of São Joaquim, Santa Catarina State, and spring and autumn conditions of Julio de Castilhos, Rio Grande do Sul State, representative of the growing conditions of the southern region of Brazil. Eighteen clones were evaluated for chip color and content of dry matter, reduced sugars, starch and amylose. Higher gain from selection was achieved for dry matter and starch content, because of the high inheritance of these traits. There was no correlation among summer, autumn and spring growing conditions for reduced sugars and amylose content; therefore low selection intensity should be applied. Summer growing season maximizes the genetic gain; therefore selection for processing quality should be mainly applied in this environmental condition.
Solanum tuberosum L.; potato breeding; chip color; dry matter
