Planting potatoes can be a fun and rewarding gardening activity. Potatoes are a staple food in many cultures and are relatively easy to grow in a variety of climates. In this blog post, we’ll go over the 6 steps it takes to plant potatoes in your home garden and take care of them.

Table of Contents

Step 1: Choose the Right Variety of Potato

Before you start planting potatoes, it’s important to choose the right variety for your climate and soil type. Some potato varieties are better suited for cool climates, while others prefer warmer weather. Look for potato varieties that are specifically bred for your region or check with your local gardening store for recommendations.

When choosing the right variety of potato for planting, there are several factors to consider

  1. Maturity: Potatoes come in early, mid and late varieties. Early varieties mature in around 60-70 days, mid-season varieties in 80-90 days, and late varieties in 100-120 days. Choose a variety that will mature in the time frame that you have available for planting and harvesting.
  2. Purpose: Different varieties of potatoes are suited for different uses. For example, some varieties are better for baking or frying, while others are better for boiling or mashing. Consider what you plan to use the potatoes for and choose a variety that is well-suited for that purpose.
  3. Climate: Different varieties of potatoes have different temperature and moisture requirements. For example, some varieties can tolerate colder temperatures, while others prefer warmer climates. Make sure to choose a variety that will thrive in your specific climate.
  4. Soil: Potatoes grow best in well-drained, fertile soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, choose a variety that is known to do well in such soil. Some varieties may not do well in sandy or rocky soil.
  5. Space: Potatoes can be grown in a wide range of spaces, from small pots to large fields. Choose a variety that is suitable for the space you have available.
  6. Disease and Pest resistance: As previously discussed, some varieties of potatoes have natural resistance to certain pests and diseases. If you’re concerned about a specific pest or disease in your area, choose a variety that is resistant to it.

By considering these factors, you’ll be able to select a variety of potato that will thrive in your garden and meet your specific needs. For more details see How to choose the right variety of potato.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

To plant potatoes, a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter is preferred. Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of about 8 inches and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil structure and fertility. Avoid planting potatoes in soil that has recently grown tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants, as these crops can carry diseases that can harm potatoes. Here are some tips on how to prepare the soil for planting potatoes:

  1. Test the soil: Before planting, it’s important to test the soil to determine its pH level and nutrient content. Potatoes prefer a slightly acid to neutral soil pH of around 6.0 to 7.0. If the pH level is too high or too low, you may need to add lime or sulfur to adjust it.
  2. Remove debris and rocks: Clear the planting area of debris, rocks, and any other large objects that could impede root growth.
  3. Add organic matter: Potatoes need well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Adding compost, well-rotted manure, or peat moss to the soil will help improve its structure and fertility.
  4. Rototill or dig the soil: Use a rototiller or a shovel to work the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches. This will help to break up compacted soil and allow roots to penetrate deeper.
  5. Rake the soil: After rototilling or digging, use a rake to level the soil and remove any clumps.
  6. Create mounds or rows: To plant potatoes, you can either create mounds or rows in the soil. Mounds are great for small gardens or raised beds, while rows are better for larger gardens or fields.
  7. Fertilize: Potatoes are heavy feeders and will benefit from a fertilizer high in phosphorus and potassium. You can use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10, or a fertilizer specifically designed for potatoes.
  8. Irrigation: Make sure to have a proper irrigation system in place before planting, potatoes require consistent moisture throughout the growing season.

Step 3: Plant Potatoes

There are several methods for planting potatoes, including:

  1. Traditional planting: This method involves digging a trench, adding fertilizer and planting seed potatoes in the trench. As the potato plants grow, you’ll need to “hill up” the soil around the base of the plants to prevent the developing tubers from being exposed to sunlight.
  2. Container planting: This method is suitable for small spaces or for those who want to grow potatoes in pots on a patio or balcony. Simply fill a container with soil, add seed potatoes and cover with about 4 inches of soil. As the plants grow, add more soil to the container until it is filled.
  3. Straw mulch planting: This method involves placing seed potatoes on top of a bed of straw. As the plants grow, more straw is added around the base of the plants to create a “mulch.” This method is helpful in preventing weeds and conserving moisture.
  4. Raised bed planting: This method is similar to traditional planting, but involves growing potatoes in raised beds. Raised beds offer improved drainage and can be easier to manage than traditional beds.
  5. In-ground bag planting: This method involves planting seed potatoes in a bag filled with soil and compost, and placing the bag in a sunny location. As the plants grow, more soil is added to the bag. This method is great for small spaces and is easy to manage.
  6. No-dig planting: This method involves placing seed potatoes on top of the soil, and covering them with a layer of straw or grass clippings. As the plants grow, more straw or clippings are added around the base of the plants. This method is great for preventing weeds and conserving moisture.

No matter which method you choose to plant potatoes, be sure to keep the soil consistently moist and to protect the developing tubers from sunlight. This will ensure that the potatoes will grow well and be ready for harvest in the appropriate time.

Step 4: Mulch and Water

Mulching and watering are essential for growing healthy and productive potato plants. Mulching helps to conserve moisture, suppress weeds and regulate soil temperature. Use organic materials such as straw, grass clippings, or leaves to mulch around the base of the potato plants. Mulch should be applied after the soil has warmed up in the spring and should be kept about 4 inches deep.

Water the potatoes regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Potatoes need consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Water deeply and regularly, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week. Water in the morning, so the foliage has a chance to dry off before evening, this will minimize the risk of disease. Check the soil moisture regularly, and make sure to water more frequently during hot weather or if the soil is dry.

Step 5: Fertilize and Control Pests

If you used compost or well-rotted manure when preparing the soil, you may not need to fertilize the potatoes again. However, if you notice that the plants are not growing well, you can add a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, according to the package instructions.

Potatoes can be prone to pests, such as Colorado potato beetles and potato blight. Keep an eye out for these pests and take appropriate action, such as handpicking the insects or applying a pest control product, as needed.

Step 6: Harvest the Potatoes

Potatoes are ready to harvest when the plants start to die back and the tops are dry and yellow. To harvest, gently dig up the potatoes with a shovel or fork, being careful not to damage the tubers. Brush off any excess dirt and allow the potatoes to cure in a cool, dry place for a few days before storing.

By following these steps, you can successfully plant potatoes in your home garden. Whether you like them mashed, fried, or roasted, homegrown potatoes are sure to be a tasty addition to your meals.