Northern vigor is an effect seen in certain varieties of produce where varieties of plants grown in northern climates, then moved to southern climates, are hardier, better-producing, and better tasting.[1] This effect has been primarily observed in potatoes, but is also seen in strawberries[2] and garlic.[1][3] The Saskatchewan Seed Potato Growers Association has trademarked the term "Northern Vigour" for use with their potatoes,[1] but the effect is seen in produce grown throughout Canada and the northern United States.[3]
The exact cause of northern vigor is not known, but there are many theories. Some believe it has to do with the length of the days in northern latitudes,[1] or that it has to do with the combination of cold nights and hot days.[1] Others believe that the cold may kill off any disease that would otherwise affect plants from the south.[1] Still others think that the switch from a colder climate to a warm, less harsh environment makes it easier for the plants to thrive.[1] Researchers in Saskatchewan discovered that tubers raised in the cold and then moved to a warm environment undergo a series of physiological changes that may trigger more vigorous growth.[3]
References
edit- ^ a b c d e f g Amy Jo Ehman (28 April 2010). Prairie Feast. Coteau Books. pp. 215–216. ISBN 978-1-55050-413-2. Retrieved 11 June 2013.
- ^ Lokken, J.; Storey, G.; Tanino, K. (March 2002). "Northern Vigour® of Strawberry Crowns" (PDF). University of Saskatchewan. Retrieved 2013-06-11.
- ^ a b c Power, Natasha; Clark, J. Stephen (May 2008). "Are clawbacks always efficient? Northern vigor in Canada" (PDF). CAIRN Policy Brief. Canadian Agricultural Innovation Research Network. Retrieved 2013-06-11.
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