Northern vigor

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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]

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References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Amy Jo Ehman (28 April 2010). Prairie Feast . Coteau Books. pp.  215–216. ISBN   978-1-55050-413-2 . Retrieved 11 June 2013.
  2. Lokken, J.; Storey, G.; Tanino, K. (March 2002). "Northern Vigour® of Strawberry Crowns" (PDF). University of Saskatchewan . Retrieved 2013-06-11.
  3. 1 2 3 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.