2.3. Leaf area and tuber dry matter

Leaf area was measured using a leaf area meter (Model LI‐3100; LI‐COR, Inc., Lincoln, NE, USA), and tuber dry weight was measured using the oven‐drying method at 45, 55, and 65 DAE. In total, 10 normal potato seedlings and 10 with degradating tubers were randomly selected. The tubers were separated from the plants, dried for 30 min at 105°C, and kept at 80°C until they reached a constant weight; dry weights were then recorded. The leaf area ratios (m²) and tuber dry weights (g) were calculated from the same seedlings.