How to Plant Seed Potatoes

Mar 31

Select seed potatoes: Choose certified seed potatoes, as they are less likely to carry diseases. We should have them in stock by April1st.
Inspect for eyes: Seed potatoes should have "eyes," which are small buds that will sprout into plants. If the potatoes are large, you can cut them into smaller pieces, each with at least one or two eyes.
Let them dry: If you cut the potatoes, allow the pieces to dry for 1-2 days before planting. This helps prevent rot when planted.

Pick a sunny spot: Potatoes need at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.
Well-drained soil: Ensure the soil drains well and is rich in organic matter. You can improve the soil by adding compost.
Avoid heavy clay soil: If your soil is heavy, you can plant potatoes in raised beds or containers.

Loosen the soil: Use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm). This will make it easier for the potato roots to grow.
Add compost or fertilizer: Mix in compost or a balanced fertilizer to provide nutrients.

Create planting trenches: Dig trenches or shallow holes about 4 inches (10 cm) deep and 12 inches (30 cm) apart.
Place the potatoes in the trench: Position the seed potatoes with the eyes facing up. Space them about 12 inches (30 cm) apart in the trench.
Cover with soil: Gently cover the potatoes with soil, making sure they are well covered but not buried too deeply.

Water well: After planting, water the potatoes thoroughly to settle the soil around them. Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season, but avoid waterlogging.

Hill the soil: As the potato plants grow, you'll need to "hill" them. This means mounding up soil around the base of the plants to protect the developing tubers from sunlight (which can turn them green and inedible). Do this when the plants are about 6 inches tall (15 cm), and continue hilling every few weeks as they grow.

Watch for pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids or potato beetles, and remove them by hand. If necessary, use organic pest control methods.
Water regularly: Continue to water regularly, especially during dry spells.

Wait for the plants to die back: When the potato plants start to yellow and die back, it's time to harvest. This usually happens 2-4 months after planting, depending on the variety.
Harvest carefully: Gently dig up the potatoes with a fork or shovel, being careful not to damage them.

Let them cure: After harvesting, let the potatoes cure in a cool, dark, and dry place for about 1-2 weeks. This helps toughen their skins and increases their storage life.
Store properly: After curing, store your potatoes in a cool, dark, and dry place, ideally at around 40°F (4°C), in a breathable container like a burlap sack or a cardboard box.

breanna sommerville

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