Tuber ripening is a critical process that is aided by desiccation. Targeted killing of the haulm focuses the plant’s energy on ripening the tubers, resulting in improved quality and shelf life. Whether chemical or electrical, the choice of method influences the ripening process and therefore the yield of the crop. Modern techniques such as electrical desiccation offer an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional haulm destruction and help to optimise the ripening process.