Potato, Masquerade

How to Grow Potatoes

The tops of developing potato tubers should not be exposed to sunlight, or they will turn green. When the potato plants are about 5 to 6 inches tall, begin to heap soil around the base of the stems, or surround the plants with a thick layer of mulch, leaving only 2-3 set of leaves exposed. Continue to mound soil as foliage continues to grow. Potatoes will form on the portion of the stem that is buried underground. It is important to keep plants well watered during the growing season to ensure enough water for potato development. Use 1-2" of water per week, watering more during hot, dry spells.

Harvesting Potatoes

For "new" potatoes, harvest about 10 weeks after planting. When potato blossoms appear, it is a sign that the first new potatoes are ready for harvest, simply feel around in the soil with your fingers for the small tubers. Try not to damage the roots of the potato plants or you may reduce the main harvest.
Harvest mature potatoes after the tops die back and before the first frost. Dig carefully to avoid damaging the tubers. After harvesting store them in a dark, dry place for a week at 65-70 degrees F. Then store them at 35-40 degrees at fairly high humidity.