What To Know
- With a few simple steps, you can harness the power of these sprouts to cultivate a bountiful potato harvest.
- Gently break off the sprouts from the potato, leaving a small portion of the potato flesh attached.
- Potatoes with sprouts can be stored for up to a month in a cool, dark place with good ventilation.
Springtime brings with it the anticipation of fresh, homegrown vegetables, and among the most beloved is the humble potato. If you find yourself with potatoes that have sprouted, don’t despair! With a few simple steps, you can harness the power of these sprouts to cultivate a bountiful potato harvest.
Choosing the Right Sprouts
The key to successful potato planting with sprouts lies in selecting healthy sprouts. Look for firm, white or pale yellow sprouts that are at least 1/2 inch long. Avoid any sprouts that are brown, soft, or withered.
Preparing the Sprouts
Before you plant your sprouts, you need to prepare them properly. Gently break off the sprouts from the potato, leaving a small portion of the potato flesh attached. This will provide the sprouts with the nutrients they need to grow strong roots.
Selecting the Soil
Potatoes thrive in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve its fertility and drainage.
Planting the Sprouts
Dig holes in the prepared soil, spacing them 12-18 inches apart. Place the sprouts in the holes, with the sprout facing up. Cover the sprouts with soil, leaving the top 1/2 inch of the sprout exposed.
Watering and Fertilizing
Water the potatoes deeply after planting. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. Fertilize the potatoes every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Hilling
As the potato plants grow, they will produce stems and leaves. Soil should be hilled around the stems to support the plants and prevent the tubers from being exposed to sunlight.
Harvesting
Potatoes are typically ready to harvest 10-12 weeks after planting. When the tops of the plants start to turn yellow and die back, it’s time to harvest. Dig up the potatoes carefully to avoid damaging them.
Storing Potatoes
Store potatoes in a cool, dark place with good ventilation. They will keep for several months under these conditions.
Troubleshooting
Why are my sprouts turning brown?
This could be due to overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and water the potatoes only when necessary.
Why are my sprouts not growing?
The sprouts may not be getting enough sunlight or nutrients. Make sure the potatoes are planted in a sunny location and fertilize them regularly.
Why are my potatoes small?
Small potatoes can be caused by a lack of nutrients or overwatering. Fertilize the potatoes regularly and water them deeply but infrequently.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I plant potatoes with sprouts that have turned green?
A: Yes, but green sprouts indicate that the potatoes have been exposed to too much light. Plant them deeper in the soil to protect them from further light exposure.
Q: How long can I store potatoes with sprouts?
A: Potatoes with sprouts can be stored for up to a month in a cool, dark place with good ventilation.
Q: Can I plant potatoes in the fall?
A: Yes, potatoes can be planted in the fall in mild climates. Plant the potatoes 6-8 weeks before the first hard frost.
