Growing Potato

Solanum tuberosum : Solanaceae / the nightshade family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
      P P              

(Best months for growing Potato in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • P = Plant seed potatoes
  • Plant tuber. Best planted at soil temperatures between 50°F and 86°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 12 - 16 inches apart
  • Harvest in 15-20 weeks. Dig carefully, avoid damaging the potatoes.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Peas, Beans, Brassicas, Sweetcorn, Broad Beans, Nasturtiums, Marigolds
  • Avoid growing close to: Cucumber, Pumpkin, Sunflowers, Tomatoes, Rosemary

Your comments and tips

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18 Jun 19, Nox (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
How do I make my potatoes carry more. I intend planting in September
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06 Apr 19, benny (New Zealand - sub-tropical climate)
I actually live in the Kingdom of Tonga on the island of Eua this island is subtropical, with an amazing soil profile of rich black soil many metres deep I'm looking for a potato species that is well-suited to grow in these conditions I understand that sweet potato is the mainstay of crops in the Pacific Islands but I am looking for a potato that may be harvested after a shorter growing. than a sweet potato so any ideas,?
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30 Mar 19, NOMFUNDO (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
I LIVE IF LADY FRERE, EASTERN CAPE. THIS IS A VER DRY PLACE. CAN I PLANT POTATOES IN HAY IN WINTER? IF SO, SHOULD I WATER THEM IN THE HAY?
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07 Oct 18, bennet (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
I want to start potato farming , where can i buy seeds?
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29 Oct 18, (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Hi, I managed to get some seed potatoes from a local garden center. Even if they don't have any when you visit, it may be worth asking if they can source any for you. I'm not an expert but you may be able to use shop bought potatoes. Leave them to sprout and try!
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24 Jul 18, Lukanyo (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
Is there any difference in size with seedlings during planting
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12 Apr 18, Rachel (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
good day please could u help we have a probem with the potatoes we planted and i dont know how to solve the problem. is there someone that can contact me and give me advise
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07 Apr 18, Makhosini Mdluli (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
Hi. Is it recommended to plant potatoes in Tyres here in SA (Gauteng)
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22 Feb 18, Muzi (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Can i plant potatoes twice a year?
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23 Jan 18, zrk (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
can I plant Potatoes in February. My farm is in the Eastern Cape ,Qumanco. It's also a high frost area.
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Showing 31 - 40 of 113 comments
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That's a big subject! I'd say it depends on what you're trying to achieve. Do you just want a few really good veggies? Do you want to grow as much of your daily food as possible? Does your garden need to be aesthetically pleasing? There are lots of books on container gardening, you could try browsing your local library online. If space is limited, I say think about which veggies you love the most, which are pricey at the store, and which are most improved by eating fresh. Basil and salad greens for instance, are very easy to grow but very overpriced at the store. Corn and tomatoes are so much better homegrown. Whereas potatoes and onions are cheap at the store and not THAT much better homegrown so they're only worth it if you have plenty of space to devote. My advice for a beginner would be to start small and manageable, and build on that each year. Maybe this year buy a couple of Earthboxes or DIY a knockoff, and just grow a few of your favorite veggies. This will also reveal what some of your challenges might be. For instance my first year raccoons ate all my sweet corn, that taught me I would need a good fence in the future. ;-)

- colleen

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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