How to plant potatoes: A quick guide for beginner gardener

Potatoes are extremely popular and can be used to make many delicious dishes, which is why many gardeners want to grow them.

Although they are not that difficult to grow, the planting process is different from most vegetables.

Let's find out more about this.

Choose seed potatoes

Select healthy, certified seed potatoes from a garden center or online supplier. 

Avoid using potatoes from the grocery store, as they may be treated with chemicals or not suitable for planting.

Prepare the planting area

Potatoes prefer loose, well-draining soil with good fertility. 

Loosen the soil to a depth of about 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm) using a garden fork or tiller. 

Plant the potatoes

Dig furrows or trenches in the prepared soil, spacing them about 12 to 15 inches (30-38 cm) apart. 

The depth of the furrows should be around 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm). 

Cover and mound the soil

Gently cover the seed potatoes with soil, filling the furrow or trench. 

As the potato plants grow, gradually mound soil around the plants every few weeks, leaving only the top few inches of the plant exposed. 

Water and maintain the plants

Throughout the growing season, keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. 

Regularly check for pests or diseases and take appropriate measures to address them. 

Harvest the potatoes

Potatoes are typically ready for harvest when the plants have died back and turned yellow or brown. 
 

• Related news:
• potatoes
• gardening tips
• planting
• 10 June 2023

---