Planting Potatoes

Potatoes are grown from seed potatoes, which are not the same as regular potatoes. Select seed potatoes with multiple protruding buds, and if the seed potato is larger than an egg, use a sharp knife to cut it into golf ball-sized pieces that each have at least two buds on them. Do this 1-2 days before planting to allow the cut area to heal, which will prevent damage from rot and allow for better moisture retention. Potatoes prefer well-draining fertile soil, and need full sun. Make sure that any compost in the soil is well-rotted, as anything such as fresh manure can damage the plant.

If growing in a bed, dig a trench 15cm (6") wide and 20cm (8") deep. If growing in a container, select a container at least 30cm (12") deep with drainage holes and fill with 10cm (4") of soil. For both methods, place the seed potato cut-side down 35cm (14") apart, cover with 5cm (2") of soil, and water well.

Growing Potatoes

As the shoots appear, continue to cover with soil until the trench or container is full. This will give the plant loose soil to grow potatoes in, as well as forcing it to put more energy into root production. Tubers exposed to the sun can become green and inedible, so make sure all plants have adequate soil.

Harvesting Potatoes

Potatoes are ready for harvest once the foliage begins to die back, but if you're harvesting for "new potatoes", the plant is ready for harvest 2-3 weeks after flowering ends. Gently dig up the plant, being careful not to damage any potatoes. Brush the soil off the potatoes, but don't wash them until right before use. New potatoes should be eaten within several days of harvest, but regular potatoes can be left to sit in a cool, dry place to cure. This will allow their skins to thicken, helping them keep for longer.