{"id":1562,"date":"2017-06-28T22:45:31","date_gmt":"2017-06-28T22:45:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/?p=1562"},"modified":"2023-03-25T23:06:24","modified_gmt":"2023-03-25T23:06:24","slug":"how-to-grow-potatoes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Grow Potatoes: From Planting to Harvesting"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>A Comprehensive Guide to Growing Your Own Potatoes at Home<\/strong><\/h1>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Introduction\" title=\"Introduction\">Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#I_Planting_Potatoes_Getting_Started\" title=\"I. Planting Potatoes: Getting Started\">I. Planting Potatoes: Getting Started<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Preparing_Seed_Potatoes\" title=\"Preparing Seed Potatoes\">Preparing Seed Potatoes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Chitting_Sprouting_Your_Seed_Potatoes\" title=\"Chitting: Sprouting Your Seed Potatoes\">Chitting: Sprouting Your Seed Potatoes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#How_Deep_to_Plant_Potatoes\" title=\"How Deep to Plant Potatoes\">How Deep to Plant Potatoes<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#II_Choosing_Your_Planting_Method_In-Ground_Containers_or_Bags\" title=\"II. Choosing Your Planting Method: In-Ground, Containers, or Bags\">II. Choosing Your Planting Method: In-Ground, Containers, or Bags<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Traditional_In-Ground_Planting\" title=\"Traditional In-Ground Planting\">Traditional In-Ground Planting<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Planting_Potatoes_in_Containers\" title=\"Planting Potatoes in Containers\">Planting Potatoes in Containers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Growing_Potatoes_in_a_Bag\" title=\"Growing Potatoes in a Bag\">Growing Potatoes in a Bag<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#III_Potato_Plant_Care_Ensuring_a_Healthy_Harvest\" title=\"III. Potato Plant Care: Ensuring a Healthy Harvest\">III. Potato Plant Care: Ensuring a Healthy Harvest<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Watering_Your_Potato_Plants\" title=\"Watering Your Potato Plants\">Watering Your Potato Plants<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Fertilizing_Potatoes_for_Optimal_Growth\" title=\"Fertilizing Potatoes for Optimal Growth\">Fertilizing Potatoes for Optimal Growth<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Pest_and_Disease_Control\" title=\"Pest and Disease Control\">Pest and Disease Control<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#IV_Understanding_the_Growing_Process_From_Sprouting_to_Harvest\" title=\"IV. Understanding the Growing Process: From Sprouting to Harvest\">IV. Understanding the Growing Process: From Sprouting to Harvest<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Stages_of_Potato_Plant_Growth\" title=\"Stages of Potato Plant Growth \">Stages of Potato Plant Growth <\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Hilling_Potatoes_for_Increased_Yield\" title=\"Hilling Potatoes for Increased Yield \">Hilling Potatoes for Increased Yield <\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#V_Harvesting_Potatoes_Enjoying_the_Fruits_of_Your_Labor\" title=\"V. Harvesting Potatoes: Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor\">V. Harvesting Potatoes: Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#When_to_Harvest_Potatoes\" title=\"When to Harvest Potatoes \">When to Harvest Potatoes <\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#How_to_Harvest_Your_Potatoes\" title=\"How to Harvest Your Potatoes \">How to Harvest Your Potatoes <\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#Storing_Your_Potato_Harvest\" title=\"Storing Your Potato Harvest \">Storing Your Potato Harvest <\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-potatoes\/#VI_Potato_Companion_Plants\" title=\"VI. Potato Companion Plants\">VI. Potato Companion Plants<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span><strong>Introduction<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Potatoes are a staple in many diets around the world, and for good reason. They are nutritious, delicious, and versatile. If you&#8217;ve ever wondered how to grow potatoes yourself, this guide will cover everything you need to know, from planting potatoes to harvesting your delicious homegrown spuds.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"I_Planting_Potatoes_Getting_Started\"><\/span><strong>I. Planting Potatoes: Getting Started<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Preparing_Seed_Potatoes\"><\/span><strong>Preparing Seed Potatoes<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The first step in growing potatoes is understanding how to grow potatoes from potatoes. This process involves using seed potatoes, which are simply potatoes with developed eyes or sprouts. Choose healthy, certified seed potatoes from a reputable nursery or garden center to ensure they are free of diseases.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chitting_Sprouting_Your_Seed_Potatoes\"><\/span><strong>Chitting: Sprouting Your Seed Potatoes<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Before planting, encourage your seed potatoes to sprout by placing them in a cool, bright location for 2-4 weeks. This process, called chitting, helps the potatoes develop strong sprouts, which in turn leads to healthier, more productive plants.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Deep_to_Plant_Potatoes\"><\/span><strong>How Deep to Plant Potatoes<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>When it comes to planting potatoes, depth is crucial. Dig a trench 4-6 inches deep and place the seed potatoes 12 inches apart, with the sprouts facing up. Cover the seed potatoes with 3-4 inches of soil, leaving the top of the sprouts exposed.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"II_Choosing_Your_Planting_Method_In-Ground_Containers_or_Bags\"><\/span><strong>II. Choosing Your Planting Method: In-Ground, Containers, or Bags<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Traditional_In-Ground_Planting\"><\/span><strong>Traditional In-Ground Planting<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Many gardeners prefer planting potatoes directly in the ground. This method allows for a larger yield and more space for the potato plant to grow. However, it requires more preparation and maintenance, such as hilling the soil around the plants to prevent exposure to sunlight.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Planting_Potatoes_in_Containers\"><\/span><strong>Planting Potatoes in Containers<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If space is limited, learning how to grow potatoes in containers is a great option. Select a large container, at least 18 inches in diameter and depth, with drainage holes. Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix and plant your seed potatoes as you would in the ground.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Growing_Potatoes_in_a_Bag\"><\/span><strong>Growing Potatoes in a Bag<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Another space-saving method is growing potatoes in a bag, which offers the benefits of both in-ground and container planting. Purchase a specialized potato-growing bag or use a large, heavy-duty garbage bag with drainage holes. Fill the bag with 4-6 inches of potting mix, plant the seed potatoes, and add more soil as the plants grow.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"III_Potato_Plant_Care_Ensuring_a_Healthy_Harvest\"><\/span><strong>III. Potato Plant Care: Ensuring a Healthy Harvest<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Watering_Your_Potato_Plants\"><\/span><strong>Watering Your Potato Plants<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Consistent watering is essential for healthy potato plants. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent rot and other issues. In containers or bags, check the soil daily, as it may dry out more quickly.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fertilizing_Potatoes_for_Optimal_Growth\"><\/span><strong>Fertilizing Potatoes for Optimal Growth<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>To support vigorous growth, it&#8217;s essential to provide proper nutrients by fertilizing potatoes. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting and again when the plants start to flower. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of tuber development.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pest_and_Disease_Control\"><\/span><strong>Pest and Disease Control<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Regularly inspect your potato plants for signs of pests or diseases. Common potato pests include potato beetles, aphids, and slugs, while diseases such as late blight and scab can also pose a threat. Use organic or chemical controls as needed to keep your plants healthy and thriving.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"IV_Understanding_the_Growing_Process_From_Sprouting_to_Harvest\"><\/span><strong>IV. Understanding the Growing Process: From Sprouting to Harvest<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stages_of_Potato_Plant_Growth\"><\/span><strong>Stages of Potato Plant Growth <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>As your potato plants grow, they will go through several stages. After planting, the sprouts will develop into stems and leaves, forming the vegetative stage. Next, the plants will enter the flowering stage, signaling that tuber formation is underway. Finally, the plants will start to yellow and die back, indicating that it&#8217;s time to harvest.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hilling_Potatoes_for_Increased_Yield\"><\/span><strong>Hilling Potatoes for Increased Yield <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>One essential step in the potato-growing process is hilling. This involves mounding soil around the base of the plants as they grow, keeping the developing tubers covered and protected from sunlight. Hill your potatoes every 2-3 weeks, or whenever the plants have grown about 6 inches tall.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"V_Harvesting_Potatoes_Enjoying_the_Fruits_of_Your_Labor\"><\/span><strong>V. Harvesting Potatoes: Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_Harvest_Potatoes\"><\/span><strong>When to Harvest Potatoes <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The timing for harvesting potatoes depends on the variety and your intended use. For new potatoes, which are small and tender, harvest when the plants start to flower. For full-sized potatoes, wait until the plants have died back and the skins have set. This usually occurs 2-3 weeks after the plants have turned yellow and started to wither.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Harvest_Your_Potatoes\"><\/span><strong>How to Harvest Your Potatoes <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>To harvest your potatoes, use a garden fork or your hands to gently dig around the base of the plant, being careful not to damage the tubers. In containers or bags, simply dump out the contents and sort through the soil to find your potatoes.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Storing_Your_Potato_Harvest\"><\/span><strong>Storing Your Potato Harvest <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Proper storage is crucial to keep your potatoes fresh and flavorful. After harvesting, allow the potatoes to cure for a few days in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area. Once the skins have hardened, transfer the potatoes to a dark, cool, and humid storage area, such as a root cellar or unheated basement. Check the potatoes regularly for signs of spoilage and remove any affected ones to prevent the spread of rot.<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"VI_Potato_Companion_Plants\"><\/span><strong>VI. Potato Companion Plants<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Beans, corn and squash will grow well with your potatoes and improve their flavour. Herbs such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-basil\/\">basil<\/a>, parsley, and sage will attract beneficial insects that will help protect your potatoes. Marigolds are also excellent at keeping many pests away.<\/p>\n<p>Avoid planting potatoes near <a href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/growing-carrots-interesting-carrot-varieties-try\/\">carrots<\/a>, cucumbers, pumpkins, onions, squash or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/how-to-grow-tomatoes\/\">tomatoes<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Growing your own potatoes can be a rewarding and enjoyable endeavor. By understanding how to grow potatoes from potatoes and following the proper steps for planting, potato plant care, and harvesting, you&#8217;ll be well on your way to enjoying a bountiful crop of homegrown spuds. Whether you&#8217;re planting potatoes in the ground, containers, or bags, the process is simple and can yield impressive results with a little time and effort. Happy gardening!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A Comprehensive Guide to Growing Your Own Potatoes at Home Introduction Potatoes are a staple in many diets around the world, and for good reason. They are nutritious, delicious, and versatile. If you&#8217;ve ever wondered how to grow potatoes yourself, this guide will cover everything you need to know, from planting potatoes to harvesting your [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1565,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_FSMCFIC_featured_image_caption":"Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/52178084@N05\/31510906154\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Marlene Crusta<\/a> via Flickr. Licensed under <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">CC BY 2.0<\/a>","_FSMCFIC_featured_image_nocaption":"","_FSMCFIC_featured_image_hide":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[29,97],"tags":[],"blocksy_meta":"","jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/31510906154_f0230710aa_z.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1562"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1562"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1562\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1565"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1562"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1562"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.seed-nursery.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1562"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}