What To Know
- This helps to support the stems and prevent the potatoes from being exposed to sunlight, which can turn them green and bitter.
- Planting potatoes with potatoes is a simple and rewarding gardening technique that can provide you with a bountiful harvest.
- Can I plant potatoes from any potato I find in the grocery store.
Growing your own potatoes is a rewarding experience that can provide you with a delicious and nutritious harvest. While there are several methods to plant potatoes, using whole potatoes as seed is a traditional and effective technique. This blog post will guide you through the steps on how to plant potatoes with potatoes, ensuring a successful spud-growing season.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
Not all potatoes are suitable for planting as seed. Select certified seed potatoes specifically bred for planting. Look for varieties that are disease-resistant and well-suited to your growing conditions. Avoid using potatoes from the grocery store, as they may have been treated with sprout inhibitors.
Preparing the Soil
Potatoes thrive in loose, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve its fertility and drainage. The ideal soil pH for potatoes is between 5.5 and 6.5.
Cutting the Potatoes
Cut the seed potatoes into chunks, each with at least one “eye” or sprouting point. Each chunk should be about 1-2 inches in size. Make sure to use a clean, sharp knife to avoid spreading diseases.
Planting the Potatoes
Dig holes in the prepared soil, spacing them 12-18 inches apart. Place the potato chunks in the holes, eye-side up. Cover the potatoes with 2-3 inches of soil and firm it down gently.
Watering
Water the potatoes deeply after planting to settle the soil and provide moisture for germination. Continue to water regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as potatoes are susceptible to root rot.
Hilling
As the potato plants grow, hill up the soil around the base of the plants. This helps to support the stems and prevent the potatoes from being exposed to sunlight, which can turn them green and bitter.
Harvesting
Potatoes are typically ready to harvest 60-90 days after planting. Dig up the potatoes carefully using a garden fork or spade. Avoid damaging the potatoes or their skins.
Curing and Storing
After harvesting, cure the potatoes in a cool, dark place for 1-2 weeks. This helps to toughen their skins and improve their storage life. Store the potatoes in a cool, dry place with good ventilation.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality seed potatoes.
- Plant potatoes in well-drained soil.
- Space the plants adequately to allow for good air circulation.
- Water regularly, but avoid overwatering.
- Hill up the plants as they grow.
- Harvest potatoes when they are mature to ensure the best flavor and quality.
Wrapping Up: The Joy of Growing Potatoes
Planting potatoes with potatoes is a simple and rewarding gardening technique that can provide you with a bountiful harvest. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own delicious, homegrown potatoes.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I plant potatoes from any potato I find in the grocery store?
A: No, it is not recommended to plant potatoes from grocery store potatoes. These potatoes may have been treated with sprout inhibitors and may not produce viable plants.
Q: How deep should I plant the potatoes?
A: Plant the potatoes 2-3 inches deep in the soil.
Q: How often should I water my potatoes?
A: Water the potatoes regularly, especially during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for potatoes?
A: The ideal soil pH for potatoes is between 5.5 and 6.5.
Q: How can I prevent my potatoes from getting blight?
A: Blight is a common fungal disease that can affect potatoes. Plant resistant varieties, rotate your crops, and avoid overwatering to help prevent blight.
