In the crops section, you will find articles which have helpful information about growing crops. The crops we grow are; potatoes, swedes, wheat, oats, barley and grass for silage and hay.
The Ferguson Bell Planter emerged during the mid-20th century, around the 1940s, as a significant advancement in agricultural technology. It was developed in response to the growing need for efficient potato planting methods, particularly in regions where potatoes were a staple crop. The planter was invented by Harry Ferguson, an innovative engineer and inventor from […]
The Ferguson bell potato planter Read More »
Thiram, a chemical compound called tetramethylthiuram disulfide, was used as a fungicide, primarily aimed at safeguarding crops against fungal diseases during cultivation and storage. Its effectiveness in protecting crops, including swedes, from harmful fungal infections made it a staple in agricultural practices. However, the European Union (EU) took a decisive step in 2019 by banning
Thiram: The seed coating fungicide banned in the EU Read More »
Swede crops, known for their hardiness once established, are not immune to fungal diseases. After I have got over the hurdle of getting the swede crop germinated and past the rough leaf stage I then need to watch for fungal diseases in the crop. I find it easier to address problems if I know what
Fungal diseases in swede crops: identification, treatment and timing Read More »
Growing stubble turnips, for livestock forage, is a cost-effective way to provide nutritious feed. In this article, I outline the steps I take to establish a decent crop. Field selection Choose a field with good drainage and a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Swedes thrive in fertile, loamy soils. I would then do a soil
How to grow a field of stubble turnips for livestock forage Read More »
Swedes, (commonly referred to as turnips here in Northern Ireland) are a great root crop to grow in colder climates. It starts with getting your soil right, having a strategy in place for weeds, and knowing the best way to sow them. I have made a simple list of the main points you should take
How to grow swedes: a simple guide Read More »
Sprout inhibitors are designed to delay the sprouting of potatoes, but they do not stop sprouting indefinitely. These chemicals or natural substances suppress the growth of sprouts during storage. The effectiveness and duration of sprout inhibition depend on the type of inhibitor used, the concentration applied, storage conditions, and the inherent characteristics of the potato
Using sprout inhibitors on potatoes Read More »
There is an underfloor grain dryer on this farm which I helped to install around 30 years ago. The fan and heating unit are made by a well-known crop-drying equipment manufacturer Alvan Blanch. The company Alvan Blanch is a well-known British company who have been making agricultural machinery for over 70 years. Started by Alvan
Alvan Blanch underfloor grain dryers Read More »
Optimal oat yields are my goal each year I sow oats. For me to achieve this goal I must start with excellent crop establishment. This involves meticulous preparation, addressing soil health, and nutrient availability, and employing strategic cultivation techniques. Soil health: the foundation of success Healthy soil, characterised by adequate drainage and structure, is fundamental.
Good establishment practices for oats Read More »
Cold storage stands as the undisputed champion in preserving the freshness and quality of potatoes, offering unmatched benefits that ensure optimal conditions for extended periods. Let me explain why cold storage is the ultimate solution for keeping potatoes fresh. 1. Temperature control In my experience, cold stores which maintain a consistent temperature range between 4
Why cold storage reigns supreme in keeping potatoes fresh Read More »
Reseeding grassland is a fundamental aspect of farming, essential for productive pastures and sustaining livestock feed production. In this guide, I delve into the main considerations and best practices for this process, focusing on traditional methods and optimal timing. The traditional way to reseed grassland in the UK Preparation and Assessment: Before beginning the reseeding
Reseeding grassland: how and when to do it Read More »
Adding a seed dressing or treatment to seed potatoes before planting can significantly impact their growth and yield. In this article, I delve into the pros and cons of using potato seed dressings, along with common names of seed dressings used in potato growing. I have witnessed the positive effects of using a seed treatment
The pros and cons of using potato seed dressings Read More »
Barley, a versatile cereal grain, serves as a staple food and plays a significant role in various industries, including brewing and animal feed production. To ensure robust growth and maximum yield, getting your nutrient requirements and pH levels for barley near to optimum is essential. It goes without saying, that you will need to do
Nutrient requirements and pH levels for growing barley Read More »
Harvesting swedes at the right stage of maturity is essential to ensure they offer the best flavour, texture, and nutritional value. I have compiled a list of 7 tips to help you determine the ideal time for harvesting swedes: Of all these tips, the I find timing is the best indicator, and if the swedes
7 tips to assess if swedes are ready to harvest Read More »
Over the last 200 years, the sowing of turnips has evolved considerably for farmers in the UK, moving from basic hand methods to advanced machinery guided by GPS. Learn how these changes improved efficiency and yield over time, shaping modern farming practices. Although these early machines were called turnip sowers – the crops they grew
The evolution of sowing turnips Read More »
Potatoes are susceptible to a lot of fungal infections, threatening crop yields and profits. Understanding the causes and treatments of these diseases is crucial for growers. From environmental factors to effective control methods, this guide provides insights into combating fungal infections in potatoes, ensuring healthier crops and sustainable farming practices. In the UK, the top
The top 5 fungal diseases in UK potatoes Read More »
Barley has been a staple in UK agriculture, serving diverse purposes from livestock feed to brewing. Over time, the methods of storing barley have evolved, transitioning from traditional barns, grain silos, to modern grain stores. Let’s explore this journey and the innovations that have shaped it. History of storing barley crops Barley fields were once
The evolution of barley storage Read More »
Rabbits can pose a significant threat to young swede plants, often munching on tender leaves and stems, jeopardising the success of your crop. However, with proactive measures, you can effectively deter rabbits and safeguard your swede patch. Here are practical strategies to combat rabbit damage: 1. Physical barriers Erect electric fencing around swede fields using
9 tips to protect young swede plants from rabbits Read More »
Wheat is a vital crop in the UK, but it faces several challenges from pests throughout its growth cycle. Understanding the common pests and their management strategies is essential for protecting wheat yields. Here are the top 5 wheat pests in the UK: Protecting wheat crops from pests is crucial for farmers in the UK
The top 5 pests in wheat crops in the UK Read More »
The ideal sowing rate for barley typically ranges between 100 to 200 kilograms per hectare (kg/ha), depending on various factors such as soil type, climate, barley variety, and desired yield. In optimal conditions, a sowing rate of around 150 kg/ha is commonly recommended for most barley varieties. However, it’s essential to adjust the sowing rate
Choosing the ideal sowing rate for barley Read More »
Today I will show you how to get potatoes to sprout eyes. I do this a few weeks in advance of planting, which can mean your potatoes will be ready up to 2 weeks earlier than usual. So you have decided to plant some potatoes, but if you are unsure what steps to take to
How To Get Potatoes To Sprout Eyes: preparation for planting Read More »
Tedding grass for silage is a crucial step that reaps a host of benefits. Picture this: the sun is shining, and the fields are lush green with the promise of a good harvest. It’s time to ted the grass, and here’s why it matters. The 9 benefits of tedding grass are: 1. It accelerates the
9 Benefits Of Tedding Grass For Silage Read More »
Swedes, called rutabagas in America or turnips in the UK, are nutritious root vegetables prized for their taste and adaptability to various climates. Achieving the right soil pH is important for successful swede cultivation. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of soil pH for swede crops and methods for optimising pH levels in the
Optimising Soil pH for Successful Swede Cultivation Read More »
Swedes, commonly referred to as turnips in the UK, are versatile root vegetables prized for their sweet and earthy flavour profile. However, one of the challenges in swede cultivation is the occurrence of bolting, particularly during the spring months in the second year. This article delves into the intricate process of bolting in swedes, focusing
When Do Swedes Bolt? Read More »
Harvesting oats involves combining specific techniques and adjustments to achieve the best possible yield and quality. Oats, a widely consumed cereal grain valued for its adaptability and nutritional content, require careful attention to detail during harvesting. In this guide, we will examine the essential strategies for successful oat harvesting. From timing and equipment selection to
Combine Techniques and Adjustments For Harvesting Oats Read More »
Monitoring oat growth is essential for achieving the best yields and quality in oat production. By understanding the key stages of oat growth and using effective monitoring practices, farmers can make timely decisions about managing their crops. Here’s a detailed guide to help you monitor the growth and development of oats effectively. Germination Stage: Seedling
Monitoring Oat Growth and Development Read More »
Pit silage, also known as bunker or clamp silage, is a vital method for preserving animal feed over long periods. However, waste can occur during ensiling and feedout processes. In this article, we’ll explore five essential tips to help reduce waste and improve the efficiency of your pit silage system. 1. Proper Packing Technique Using
6 Tips to Reduce Waste from Pit Silage Read More »
Wheat, a vital crop in fields across the globe, undergoes a remarkable journey from seed to harvest. Understanding how wheat grows is essential for farmers to nurture healthy crops and ensure a fruitful harvest. In this guide, we’ll explore the straightforward yet fascinating stages of wheat growth, shedding light on the key milestones that drive
Understanding the Growing Stages of Wheat Read More »
Swede cultivation begins with the crucial step of sowing seeds, where the choice of method can significantly impact the success of your crop. In this guide, we explore various swede seed sowing methods, offering detailed insights to help you make informed decisions for your growing venture. 1. Direct Sowing: Direct sowing is a straightforward method
5 Swede Seed Sowing Methods Read More »
In the world of potato farming, chemical pesticides stand as vital tools in the battle against pests that threaten crop health and yield. However, with this reliance comes the critical need for safe and responsible pesticide application practices. This article aims to explore the essential safety considerations for potato farmers engaged in chemical pesticide spraying.
Ensuring Safe Chemical Pesticide Application in Potato Farming Read More »
Cabbage root fly is one of the most common pests that can affect Swedes. This small fly lays its eggs near the base of the plant, and the resulting larvae feed on the roots, causing wilting and even death of the plant. The damage caused by cabbage root fly can also make the swede itself
Cabbage Root Fly in Swedes: Prevention and Control Methods Read More »
In the intricate world of cereal production, the threat of diseases looms large, posing significant challenges to crop health and productivity. Among the myriad of diseases that afflict cereal crops, Rhynchosporium stands out as a formidable adversary, capable of wreaking havoc on fields and diminishing yields if left unchecked. In this article, we delve into
Rhynchosporium: An Introduction for New Cereal Growers Read More »
When it comes to choosing between sowing spring or winter barley, there are several factors to consider. Both types of barley have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, and the decision ultimately comes down to your weather and soil conditions. One of the main differences between spring and winter barley is their growing season. Winter
How to Choose Between Sowing Spring or Winter Barley: points to consider Read More »
Swede crops, known for their versatility and nutritional value, are a staple in agriculture across various regions. Harvesting swedes efficiently is crucial for maintaining crop quality and maximizing yields. In this article, we explore the different methods of swede crop harvesting, ranging from traditional manual techniques to modern mechanical solutions. Manual Harvesting Techniques Traditionally, swedes
Swede Crop Harvesting: From Traditional Methods to Modern Machinery Read More »
Fodder beet and swedes are two popular forage crops that farmers often grow to feed their livestock during the winter months. Both crops are high in nutritional value and provide an excellent source of feed for sheep and cattle. However, there are some differences between the two crops that farmers need to be aware of
Fodder Beet vs Swedes: A Comparison of Nutritional Value and Feeding Efficiency Read More »
Wheat farming in the UK is a dynamic and essential part of the agricultural landscape. We take a look at the most prevalent wheat varieties grown across the UK, highlighting their unique characteristics and suitability for different uses. Additionally, we explore the ongoing development of new wheat varieties and the predominant seasonal choices of UK
Wheat Varieties Grown In The UK Read More »
Growing barley can be a rewarding experience for beginner farmers. Barley is an easy-to-grow crop that has several valuable advantages. It can be used as an animal and human food source, or as a way to protect topsoil during drought conditions. Barley is a cereal crop that belongs to the grass family. It is a
Growing Barley: a guide for beginners Read More »
Understanding the temperature thresholds at which agricultural crops cease growth during winter is crucial for farmers. This knowledge is vital for planning and managing crop cycles, particularly in regions with cold winters. Although the UK does not have extremely low winter temperatures, it does experience frost. This article explores the various temperature points at which
At What Temperature Do Farm Crops Stop Growing During Winter? Read More »
Effective management of blackgrass in cereal crops hinges on a deep understanding of the weed’s biology and employing efficient stubble management techniques. Blackgrass In Cereals Blackgrass is a type of weed commonly found in cereal crops. It’s problematic because it competes with crops for resources like nutrients, light, and water. This competition can significantly reduce
Win the War Against Blackgrass: Expert Tips for Cereal Crop Success Read More »
Soil testing is a crucial aspect of grassland management, as it provides valuable insights into the health and fertility of your soil. A comprehensive understanding of your soil’s nutrient levels and pH allows you to make informed decisions about fertilizer applications and other management practices. This article will guide you through the process of soil
Soil Testing for Grassland Management Read More »
Temperature plays a critical role in the life cycle of a potato, especially during the sprouting stage. Understanding the temperature ranges at which potatoes sprout can significantly impact your growing success. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various stages of potato sprouting and how temperature influences each stage. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be
What Temperature Do Potatoes Sprout At? Read More »
Introduction Rushes, those grass-like plants often found near water bodies, serve a dual role in the environment. They provide valuable habitat to wildlife and contribute positively to various ecosystems. However, on farmland, they may become a nuisance, reducing productivity and hindering agricultural processes. The challenge of managing rushes presents farmers with a complex task that
How Long Do Rushes Take To Decompose? Read More »
Slugs pose a significant challenge to agricultural vegetable crops worldwide, impacting both crop yield and quality. Their nocturnal habits and preference for humid, cool environments make them especially troublesome for farmers. This article explores various large-scale strategies for slug control and prevention, focusing on both organic and chemical methods. Understanding Slugs Slugs, land-living molluscs, are
How to Remove Slugs from Agricultural Vegetable Crops Read More »
Potatoes, a dietary staple in many parts of the world, have a rich history in European agriculture, with the continent serving as the primary site for the crop’s expansion following its introduction from the Americas. Cultivating potatoes in Europe is feasible, but farmers must take into account the specific climatic conditions of their regions, particularly
Can Potatoes Be Planted Outside In Europe After July? beating the frost dates Read More »
Digging potatoes is a rewarding task for any gardener. The thrill of unearthing those hidden treasures beneath the soil is a delight to both experienced and novice potato growers alike. One effective and traditional method of harvesting potatoes is using a garden fork. This article will guide you through the process of digging potatoes with
Digging Potatoes with a Garden Fork: A Step-by-Step Guide Read More »
Ethylene is a natural plant hormone that plays a significant role in the ripening and senescence (ageing) of fruits and vegetables. While it has positive effects on the ripening of some fruits, it can have adverse consequences when it comes to storing certain produce, including potatoes. Ethylene and Sprouting Ethylene acts as a signaling molecule
Etheylene Gas and Sprouting Potatoes Read More »
Properly disposing of potato tops, or foliage, at harvest is crucial for maintaining a healthy plot and minimising the risk of disease transmission. In this article, we’ll explore essential guidelines for disposing of potato tops. By following these methods you can effectively manage the tops and contribute to a thriving environment. Ways to remove the
How To Dispose Of Potato Tops At Harvest Read More »
Embarking on the journey of growing your own vegetables can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. If you’re planning to grow potatoes, understanding seed potatoes certification is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of seed potatoes, exploring their qualifications, the seed grading system used in the United Kingdom, and why
Understanding Seed Potatoes: classification, certification and quality Read More »
Heirloom potatoes, are traditional potato varieties that have been preserved and passed down through generations. They offer unique flavors, appearances, and a connection to the culinary heritage of different countries. Unlike modern commercial potato varieties, heirloom potatoes maintain their historical significance and provide a glimpse into the traditional cultivation practices of the past. In this
What Are Heirloom Potatoes: are heritage varieties similar? Read More »
If you ever wanted to plant a vegetable crop in a grass field you would think it would be simple – plough it, cultivate it, and sow the seed. But it’s not that simple, the way you prepare the land will affect the soil tilth and the weed and grass content of it. Two commonly
Should You Rotavate Grassland Before Ploughing? seedbed preparation for vegetable crops Read More »
When it comes to agriculture and animal husbandry, understanding the distinction between hay and straw is essential. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct materials with different properties and uses. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, purposes, and differences between hay and straw. Definition and Composition Hay is a
What Is The Difference Between Hay And Straw? Read More »
For farmers involved in hay and silage production, the timing of grass cutting plays a vital role in determining the quality and nutritional value of the final product. Understanding the appropriate stage at which to cut the grass is crucial for maximizing yield and preserving the forage’s nutritional content. This article aims to guide farmers
The Importance of Timely Grass Cutting for Hay and Silage Production Read More »
Swedes, a root vegetable related to turnips and rutabagas, play a significant role in stockfeed due to their high nutritional value. Incorporating swedes into the diet of livestock brings diverse benefits that contribute to overall health and productivity. In this article, we will explore the nutritional value of swedes for livestock and highlight the advantages
Swedes For Livestock: A Powerhouse Stockfeed for Livestock Health and Performance Read More »
Matching a tractor to the horsepower requirements for a round baler is crucial for optimal performance and efficiency. In this article, we will explore the McHale F550 round baler and delve into the horsepower requirements specific to this model. By understanding the significance of horsepower and its relationship to crop type and baler settings, you
Horsepower Requirements for a Round Baler: McHale F550 case study Read More »
Producing high-quality hay is essential for ensuring nutritious and palatable forage for livestock. To achieve this, several key factors and steps must be considered throughout the hay production process. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to make high-quality hay, covering factors that determine hay quality and the steps you should follow to optimize
How To Make High Quality Hay: 10 steps to success Read More »
The root zone of a plant is a critical area that greatly influences its growth and overall health. By comprehending what the root zone is and how it functions, gardeners and growers can optimize their cultivation practices to support robust plant development. In this article, we will explore the concept of the root zone, including
What Is A Plants Root Zone? Read More »
Understanding the impact of drought on our crops is becoming increasingly essential in an era of changing climate conditions. This article aims to shed light on the damaging effects of drought on different crops, notably vegetables and arable crops, offering an in-depth understanding for growers worldwide. Understanding Drought Drought is a prolonged period of abnormally
The Effects Of Drought On Crops: vegetables and arable crops Read More »
If you’re keen on growing your own oats, you’re in the right place. Oats are not only a versatile grain but also a fantastic addition to your garden or field, enriching the soil and providing a great source of nutritious food. Ready to get sowing? Let’s dig in! Soil Preparation for Oats: Dealing with Grass,
How to Grow Oats: 3 Simple Sowing Methods Read More »
Germination is the process through which a seed turns into a new plant. For growers, understanding the factors that influence germination is crucial to ensure healthy plant growth. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential elements required for successful seed germination. The Seed: An Overview A seed is made up of three main parts: the
What Does a Seed Need to Germinate? Read More »
Buttercups (Ranunculus spp.) are bright yellow flowering plants that can quickly invade grasslands, reducing the quality and quantity of forage available for livestock. Removing buttercups is essential for promoting healthy grass growth and maintaining productive pastures. In this article, we’ll explore the best farming practices to control and eliminate buttercups from grassland. Identifying Buttercups in
Hello, fellow potato growers! Today, we’re diving into the world of mechanized weeding and ridging. If you’ve got a larger area of potatoes, using a tractor and specialized equipment can make the weeding and ridging process more efficient and less labor-intensive. In this article, we’ll explore how to use a Massey Ferguson 35x tractor, a
Docks (Rumex spp.) are a common and persistent weed problem in grasslands, posing a threat to agricultural productivity and overall pasture quality. Knowing the right stage to spray docks is crucial in effectively controlling their growth and preventing them from taking over your grassland. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the optimal stage of
Rushes, often referred to as “nature’s warning sign,” can be a significant problem for grassland managers and landowners. These invasive plants thrive in wet, poorly drained soils, and their presence can reduce the productivity and quality of grasslands. Controlling rush infestations is essential for maintaining healthy grassland ecosystems, providing better forage for livestock, and promoting
Effective Strategies for Removing Rushes from Grassland Read More »
Anyone who has tried to grow a plant will know firsthand how important it is to educate yourself about the pests that can wreak havoc on our beloved plants. Today, let’s dive into the world of potato leafhoppers, tiny insects that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Identifying potato leafhoppers Potato leafhoppers are small,
What Are Potato Leafhoppers? lifecycle, effects and control Read More »
Growing potatoes can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to stay vigilant and keep an eye out for the most common pests and diseases that can harm your crops. In this article, I’ll share with you the top 10 most common pests and diseases that affect potatoes, as well as some helpful tips on
Hello, fellow growers and gardening enthusiasts! Welcome back to another informative post on growerexperts.com. Today, we’re going to explore the fascinating world of seed potatoes and how their size can impact the overall yield of your potato crop. There are several factors that contribute to the final yield, and while it might seem logical that
The Surprising Impact of Seed Potato Size on Your Potato Yield Read More »
If you are an avid grower, you’ll know the importance of saving seed for the next planting season. One of the most popular vegetables to grow are potatoes. Potatoes are relatively easy to grow and can be stored for a long time in the correct conditions. However, to grow potatoes each year as efficiently as
How to Keep Seed Potatoes for Planting Next Year: tips for keeping home-grown seed Read More »
If you’re looking to start a vegetable garden, you might be wondering which plants grow the fastest from seed. Fast-growing vegetables are a great option for gardeners who don’t have a lot of time to wait for their crops to mature. Fortunately, there are many delicious and nutritious vegetables that grow quickly and easily from
Top 10 Fastest Growing Vegetables from Seed Read More »
Verticillium wilt is a soil-borne disease that affects a wide range of crops, including potatoes. The disease is caused by the fungus Verticillium dahliae, which invades the plant’s water-conducting system, leading to wilting, stunting, and reduced yield. The fungus can survive in the soil for up to 10 years, making it difficult to manage. Fortunately,
Managing Verticillium Wilt in Potatoes: effective strategies and prevention techniques Read More »
Organic potato farming is a sustainable and eco-friendly way to grow potatoes. However, it can be challenging to cope with pests and diseases without the use of synthetic chemicals. Organic potato farmers need to be proactive in preventing and managing pests and diseases to ensure a successful harvest. One of the most important steps in
How to Cope with Pests and Diseases in Organic Potatoes: Tips and Strategies Read More »
Organic gardening is becoming increasingly popular as people become more conscious of the food they consume. One of the most popular vegetables to grow organically are potatoes. Potatoes are relatively easy to grow, and they are a staple in many households. Growing organic potatoes is not only good for the environment, but also good for
How to Grow Organic Potatoes: A Beginner’s Guide to Cultivating Chemical-Free Spuds Read More »
Are you thinking about growing potatoes in your garden but not sure when to plant them? The timing of planting potatoes can have a significant impact on the yield and quality of your crop. Knowing when to plant potatoes is essential to ensure a successful harvest. The best time to plant potatoes depends on several
When Should I Plant Potatoes: a helpful guide from planting to harvest Read More »
Magnesium is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development, and potatoes require a sufficient amount of magnesium to grow optimally. The amount of magnesium required by a potato plant can vary depending on factors such as soil type, growing conditions, and potato variety. How much magnesium do potatoes need? The amount of magnesium you
How Much Magnesium Do Potato Plants Need To Grow Optimally? Read More »
When winter has passed and a new spring season is looming, it is now time to get ready to start planting your next crop. This applies to a raised bed, an allotment, or a field. Before you can plant the next crop into the soil you will need to prepare it to give the new
How To Prepare Soil For Planting Potatoes: 3 important sections Read More »
Swedes are a very tasty winter vegetable, they are planted in late spring and harvested in Autumn. Harvesting the swedes is straightforward- the big question is how to store swedes? As winter ends it is important to harvest and store any swedes still in the ground, as they will soon begin to bolt and produce
How To Store Swedes: big tips for long storage Read More »
We’ve heard it all a thousand times before- preparation is the key to everything- and it is no different when it comes to preparing your garden for potatoes. Preparing your garden for potatoes The following applies if you are growing a crop of potatoes in your garden, allotment, or field. Land drainage and soil sampling
Preparing Your Garden For Potatoes: what to do and when for better results Read More »
The thought of storing potatoes outside long term seems strange, but this is precisely how most people kept them for centuries in their fields and gardens. The mound they created was known as a “Potato Pit”. The funny thing about potato pits is that they are excellent at storing potatoes for a long time if
Storing Potatoes Outside: how to make an amazing potato pit Read More »
If you are growing potatoes for the first time, you may be wondering if fertilising potatoes is a good idea. Like all living plants, potato plants need adequate nutrients to grow and produce large tubers. Namely, potatoes need nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, the three nutrients denoted in the NPK ratio on a bag of fertilizer.
Fertilising Potatoes: the key to big yields Read More »
Potatoes are a common staple in the American diet and are often grown in the home garden. These starchy tubers are used for fries, mashed potatoes, and in casseroles, soups, and stews. It may surprise you to learn that even though potatoes are vegetables, the potato tubers aren’t really the fruit of a potato plant.
When Do Potatoes Flower? Read More »
You may have read about growing potatoes in compost and wondered if it was really a good idea. Technically, potatoes can be grown in compost alone, but it isn’t always the best choice. Amending your soil with compost or making a potting mix with compost and soilless mix for containers may be a better choice.
Can I Grow Potatoes In Straight Compost: + how to increase its P and K Read More »
Many home gardeners enjoy growing potatoes and storing them for winter use. Potatoes are both nutritional and versatile, providing the makings for many recipes. To enjoy the fruits of your labor all year long, you will need to make sure your potatoes have a good skin set and have been appropriately cured before winter storage.
What Is Skin Set On Potatoes? an important process for storage Read More »
Potato plants (Solanum tuberosum) produce leafy tops that grow to 40 inches tall, explains the International Potato Center. The tops perform photosynthesis and manufacture energy that is stored as starch in the underground tubers. Without the tops, your potato plants cannot perform photosynthesis, and tubers will not grow. However, there are times when the tops may
Can You Cut The Tops Off Potato Plants? big bulk problems Read More »
Potatoes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from tiny fingerlings to massive baking potatoes. The size of the mature potato tubers depends primarily on the type of potato you are growing, but other factors also affect their size. While many gardeners face the challenge of potato tubers that grow smaller than expected, sometimes
Can Potatoes Grow Too Big: why massive potatoes (tubers) should be avoided Read More »
The Colorado Potato Beetle, also known as a potato bug, is a common insect pest found primarily on potatoes in North America. This destructive insect devours the foliage (and blossoms) on potato plants and can strip them bare in a few days if action isn’t taken. Fortunately, there are ways you can keep potato bugs
Growing potatoes in the home garden is a great way to provide your family with healthy and nutritious potatoes all year, but it does come with its challenges. Potatoes should not be planted in the same spot yearly and must be rotated with other crops. Find out how to rotate your potatoes and what to
Can I Grow Potatoes In The Same Plot Every Year? the importance of crop rotation Read More »
Growing your potatoes in the home garden and storing them for winter is a great way to provide your family with healthy and nutritious food all year. Following the best practices for harvesting, curing, and storing potatoes is essential to your success. Find out how to cure potatoes after harvest, what curing means and how
How To Cure Potatoes After Harvest: a step-by-step guide Read More »
Potatoes are easy-to-grow vegetables that will grow in nearly any soil. However, you should aim to provide the best soil for potatoes by following the steps I have outlined below. They do best in soils with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Providing potatoes with good soil, adequate nutrients, and plenty of water will increase
The Best Soil For Potatoes: what it is and how to get it Read More »
Growing potatoes in your backyard or garden isn’t difficult. With proper care, you can expect to harvest two to five pounds of potatoes from each plant, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Sometimes, problems arise, like the tops of the potato plants falling over. This can happen for several reasons. Let’s look at the
10 Reasons Why Your Potato Plants Have Fallen Over Read More »
After months of careful planning and preparing seed, soil, and nutrients to plant your potato crop, the last thing you want to see are the potato leaves curling, stunted, and knarly. There are many things that can cause your potato plants to have curled leaves. In this article, I will discuss the possible causes and
Potato Leaves Curling: virus, herbicide, or drought? Read More »
If you have noticed chew marks on the leaves of your potatoes in the morning but can’t identify the culprit, you may have slugs and snails eating potato plants. These garden pests come out under the cover of darkness and slip out of sight when morning arrives. Look for glistening trails on the foliage as
Slugs And Snails Eating Potato Plants: identification and removal Read More »
Growing potatoes at home will provide you with the basis for many meals, from fluffy mashed potatoes to delicious home fries. These easy-to-grow vegetables do require plenty of room to grow. But when you know how far apart to plant potatoes, they will produce an abundance of large, fresh produce for all your family. Is
How Far Apart To Plant Potatoes Read More »
It’s the time of year again when we begin to think about next year’s potato crop. We may have already decided where we will grow them, what variety we will plant, and how much potato fertilizer we will apply. One aspect which can make a massive difference to the speed at which our crop establishes
How Deep Should I Plant My Potatoes: why seed depth is important Read More »
Swedes were first discovered growing in Sweden when a botanist called Gaspard Bauhin found them growing wild in 1620. This article discusses 5 popular varieties so you can decide which is the best swede variety to grow. They are also referred to as Rutabaga in US and Turnip in the UK, although they are much
Which Is The Best Swede Variety To Grow? top 5 varieties characteristics Read More »
Maris Piper is a versatile potato variety that is excellent for making chips and roast potatoes. They are the most widely grown potato variety in the UK – accounting for 16% of the total area grown in 2014. They are golden-skinned, cream-fleshed maincrop potato which has an excellent taste and is capable of high yields.
Potato Variety Maris Piper: origin and characteristics Read More »
Rooster is the most popular potato in Ireland – In 2004 It accounted for 40% of the total potato crop grown. They are dull red-skinned, yellow-fleshed maincrop potatoes that have excellent taste and high yields. They are highly versatile- they can be boiled with skins on, mashed, chipped, roasted, steamed, and baked with very good
Potato Variety Rooster: origin and characteristics Read More »
The potato variety Russet Norkotah is the second most popular potato in the US. They are russeted, brown-skinned early to medium maincrop potatoes. They are very attractive potatoes with excellent processing abilities. They can be boiled and mashed but their main market is for baked potatoes or processing for French fries. Origin The Russet Norkotah
Potato Variety Russet Norkotah: origin and characteristics Read More »
Desiree is a red-skinned early maincrop potato. They are slightly waxy potatoes with a distinctive taste. They can be boiled, roasted, chipped and used cold in salads, they are versatile potatoes and are suitable for pre-packing and general ware. Origin Desiree was bred in the Netherlands in 1962. Yield and dry matter Expect high yields
Potato Variety Desiree: origin and characteristics Read More »
Kerr’s Pink are the second most popular potato in Ireland. They are mainly cooked as boiled potatoes but are good for roasting and chipping also. They are suitable for pre-packing and general ware. Origin Although thought to be an Irish-bred potato when it was introduced in 1917- it was actually J. Henry of Cornhill in
Potato Variety Kerr’s Pinks: origin and characteristics Read More »
Russet Burbank potatoes are one of the most popular potato varieties in the United States. They were bred by the US plant breeder Luther Burbank (Massachusetts) in 1902 in a bid to improve the disease resistance of Irish potato varieties being used at that time. Beginnings Russet Burbank potatoes were not an immediate success when
Potato Variety Russet Burbank: origin and characteristics Read More »
Blight is a common fungal disease that affects potatoes. It can destroy the entire crop in less than a week if left unattended. Unfortunately, there is little you can do to save your potatoes once they have been infected with blight. This makes prevention key to raising healthy potatoes. While the best prevention for potato blight
Copper Sulphate As A Potato Blight Spray: what is it and is it good? Read More »
Blight is a fungal disease that can affect tomatoes, potatoes and other members of the nightshade family. Early Blight is caused by the Alternaria solani fungus while late blight is caused by the Phytophthora infestans (p. infestans) fungus. Late Blight was responsible for the Irish Potato Famine between 1845 and 1849, destroying nearly 80 percent of Ireland’s potato crop. This
Blight Resistant Potato Varieties: background and examples Read More »
