Growing potatoes is easier than you might think. With the right preparation, timing, and care, you can enjoy a hearty harvest of potatoes from your own garden.
1
Start with certified seed potatoes to avoid diseases and ensure a healthy crop.
2
Cut larger seed potatoes into chunks with at least 2 eyes per piece for sprouting.
3
Let cut pieces dry for 1-2 days to form a callus over the cuts, reducing rot risk.
4
Prepare your garden with well-draining soil and a pH of 5.0-5.5 for optimal growth.
5
Plant chunks about 3 inches deep and 12 inches apart in rows spaced 3 feet apart.
6
The best time to plant is two weeks after the last frost when the soil has warmed.
7
Keep the soil moist, especially during the period when tubers start to develop.
8
Mound soil around the plants as they grow to protect tubers from sunlight and greening.
9
Look for flowering plants as a sign that tubers are beginning to form below the soil.
10
Harvest potatoes when the foliage begins to die back, signaling tubers have matured.
ENJOY
A single potato plant can produce up to 5 pounds of potatoes, making them a highly rewarding crop for gardeners.