How to Grow Potato Plants
Potatoes are thickened underground stems called tubers. For good tuber development, potatoes require deep, loose, well-drained soil that is free from stones. They need full sun. Plant tubers directly in the garden after danger of heavy frost. Plant them with the eyes up, 2 to 3 inches deep and 10 to 12 inches apart in rows spaced 2 feet apart. The tops of developing tubers should not be exposed to sunlight, or they will turn green. When the 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. Potatoes need regular watering throughout the season.
Potato Nutrition
The potato is one of the most important staple foods in our diet. They are rich in vitamins B and C, potassium, protein, complex carbohydrates, and fiber. Potatoes can be prepared in so many ways that it's possible to eat them for a year and not grow tired of them.
Potato Plant Harvesting Tips
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 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.
Growing Potatoes in your Garden
Potato Recipes & Storage
The uses of potatoes are unlimited only by your imagination. They can be boiled, baked, roasted, deep-fried, grilled, sauteed, stir-fried, braised, glazed, mashed, creamed, or scalloped. They can be made into soups, stews, and casseroles, as well as potato chips, potato pancakes, and hash browns.
Popular Potato Varieties Available at Burpee
Browse some of our best selling potato types at Burpee Seeds:
- Potato, Red Gold
- Potato, Fingerling Collection
- Potato, Rio Grande Russet
- Potato, Red Luna
- Potato, Yukon Gold
