Markies is a relatively new variety with outstanding processing quality. It is suitable for processed products, and the production of French fries. The variety will produce medium tuber numbers per plant but has the potential for high yields. It has late foliage maturity. Tuber shape is oval, uniform, medium to shallow eyes, with consistently high dry matter content and pale fry colours.
Markies is moderately susceptible to foliage blight, but has a higher degree of resistance to tuber infection. Good resistance to damage and bruising. Resistant to PCN (Ro1) & (Ro4).
Markies has late foliage maturity, similar to Cara. Tuber numbers are generally akin to Estima. Markies requires a long growing season.
Markies has a strong rooting system, and is tolerant to drought stress. Dormancy is longer than Maris Piper. Mini chitting will encourage earlier emergence and advance crop maturity.
Nematode control: Markies is resistant to Globodera rostochiensis (pathotype 1) and (pathotype4) but susceptible and fairly tolerant to G. pallida. Where PCN is thought to be a problem, soils should be tested and species identified, and where necessary the use of nematicides should be considered even where the count is low.
Spraing: Early data indicates that Markies has a good resistance to spraing caused by tobacco rattle virus, transmitted by free living nematodes.