The aim of this study was to assess the effect of irrigation on the content and yield of starch in several potato cultivars grown in different regions of Poland. Field experiments were conducted over the period 2009-2011 in Experimental Stations belonging to the Research Centre for Cultivar Testing in Słupia Wielka. Three factors were analysed: cultivation technology: (a) with irrigation and (b) without irrigation – as the control treatment; potato cultivars (Bellarosa, Cyprian, Owacja and Vineta) and three locations (Masłowice, Szczecin Dąbie, Węgrzce). The study was conducted with the randomized split-plot design with three replications. Permanent fertilization applied in the experiment amounted to: 100 kg N, 43.6 kg P and 124.5 kg K·ha^-1. Cultivation and plant protection measures were performed in accordance with the principles of good agricultural practice. Irrigation was used when moisture content in the soil layer (0-30 cm) fell below 70% of the field water capacity. Tuber harvest was performed during their full physiological maturity. Tuber yield and the content and yield of starch were determined during harvest. Obtained results were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). Significant effect of the studied factors on starch content and yield was proved. For starch yield, interaction between experimental location and cultivars, technology and irrigation and location, and the years of study and cultivars also appeared to be significant.

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