What factors influence the price of potatoes

Summary

We have outlined here what we consider to be some of the prime factors influencing the price structure for farm products. As noted at the outset, all of these factors operate during specific periods of storage, preplanting, planting, growing, harvesting, shipping and transit, in not only the local area but in competing areas. In Kern District we find that these factors are operating during these periods in at least five competitive potato states with old stocks, namely Maine, Idaho, Colorado, Minnesota and North Dakota, and in twenty-four competitive states with new stocks. The results of this complex interplay of factors during certain periods in certain areas, finally results in a price structure.

Recognizing and properly interpreting and applying the various facts discussed in this article is a never-ending process. Psychological factors which defy quantitative measure are also involved in marketing any perishable commodity. We trust that our treatment of the subject, although not considered from a strictly academic standpoint, will enable the reader to have a clearer conception of what is involved in those factors that influence the price of farm products.