Symptoms
- check_circleIrregular or star-shaped cavity inside the tuber
- check_circleCavity walls sometimes discoloured brown or grey
- check_circleNormal, unblemished skin on the outside
- check_circleMore common in unusually large tubers
Causes
- arrow_rightInconsistent growth rate from irregular watering
- arrow_rightUneven or excessive fertilisation, especially nitrogen
- arrow_rightRapid growth spurts after a period of slow growth
- arrow_rightWide plant spacing that encourages oversized tubers
How to Diagnose
Cut the tuber or root in half to reveal a star-shaped or irregular hollow cavity at the centre, sometimes with discoloured edges. There is usually no external sign before cutting.
Treatment
There is no fix once hollow heart has formed — affected tubers are safe to eat if trimmed but are unsuitable for storage or sale. Cut away the hollow section before use.
Prevention
Keep soil moisture consistent throughout the growing season and avoid drought-then-flood cycles. Apply balanced, even fertilisation and avoid excess nitrogen. Choose planting density appropriate to the variety to prevent oversized tubers.
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