Potatoes

This is the Potatoes section of the website where you’ll find articles about growing potatoes.

Growing potatoes is rewarding and never gets old!

one of my potatoes sprouting in the store

Using sprout inhibitors on potatoes

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

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My cold store with boxes of potatoes in it

Why cold storage reigns supreme in keeping potatoes fresh

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

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my seed potatoes with seed dressing on them

The pros and cons of using potato seed dressings

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

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a potato affected by late blight fungus

The top 5 fungal diseases in UK potatoes

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 »

my Hardi sprayer

Ensuring Safe Chemical Pesticide Application in Potato Farming

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.

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a sprouting Kerrs Pink potato

What Temperature Do Potatoes Sprout At?

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 »

frost on a tree in a field

Can Potatoes Be Planted Outside In Europe After July? beating the frost dates

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 with a garden fork

Digging Potatoes with a Garden Fork: A Step-by-Step Guide

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

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sprouting potato

Etheylene Gas and Sprouting Potatoes

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

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potato tops ready to remove before harvest

How To Dispose Of Potato Tops At Harvest

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

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a potato inspector inspecting seed potatoes in a field

Understanding Seed Potatoes: classification, certification and quality

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

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heritage variety potatoes arran victory and british queens in a bag after harvest

What Are Heirloom Potatoes: are heritage varieties similar?

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 »

massey ferguson 35x and grubber

Weeding and Ridging Potato Drills with a Tractor: using a Massey Ferguson 35x, with a Ferguson grubber and drill plough

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

Weeding and Ridging Potato Drills with a Tractor: using a Massey Ferguson 35x, with a Ferguson grubber and drill plough Read More »

leafhopper on potato leaf

What Are Potato Leafhoppers? lifecycle, effects and control

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 »

a potato with soft rot and white mould growing on it

Top 10 Most Common Pests And Diseases In Potatoes: the most common problems for new growers

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

Top 10 Most Common Pests And Diseases In Potatoes: the most common problems for new growers Read More »

seed potatoes in a bag

The Surprising Impact of Seed Potato Size on Your Potato Yield

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

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smal seed potatoes freshly dug from the soil ready to use for seed

How to Keep Seed Potatoes for Planting Next Year: tips for keeping home-grown seed

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 »

verticillium wilt on a potato plant

Managing Verticillium Wilt in Potatoes: effective strategies and prevention techniques

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,

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organic potatoes growing in a field

How to Cope with Pests and Diseases in Organic Potatoes: Tips and Strategies

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 »

seed potatoes with buds in a basket ready to plant into the soil

How to Grow Organic Potatoes: A Beginner’s Guide to Cultivating Chemical-Free Spuds

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 »

a field with freshly planted potato drills

When Should I Plant Potatoes: a helpful guide from planting to harvest

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 »

potato plants starting to grow

How Much Magnesium Do Potato Plants Need To Grow Optimally?

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 »

How and when to prepare your garden for potatoes

Preparing Your Garden For Potatoes: what to do and when for better results

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

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a potato pit

Storing Potatoes Outside: how to make an amazing potato pit

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

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fertilizing potatoes

Fertilising Potatoes: the key to big yields

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.

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potatoes growing in compost

Can I Grow Potatoes In Straight Compost: + how to increase its P and K

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.

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What Is Skin Set On Potatoes? an important process for storage 

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 »

an image of potato tops cut off from the potato drills in a field

Can You Cut The Tops Off Potato Plants? big bulk problems

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

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an image of a potato cut in half showing the brown cavity of hollow heart inside

Can Potatoes Grow Too Big: why massive potatoes (tubers) should be avoided

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

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a photo of The Colorado Potato Beetle on a potato plant

Identifying And Removing Colorado Potato Beetle From Potato Plants: 3 effective defenses!

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

Identifying And Removing Colorado Potato Beetle From Potato Plants: 3 effective defenses! Read More »

crop rotation in different sections in vegetable garden

Can I Grow Potatoes In The Same Plot Every Year? the importance of crop rotation

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 »

heritage variety potatoes arran victory and british queens in a bag after harvest

How To Cure Potatoes After Harvest: a step-by-step guide

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

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a field with freshly planted potato drills

The Best Soil For Potatoes: what it is and how to get it

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

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potato plants falling over in a field

10 Reasons Why Your Potato Plants Have Fallen Over

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

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slugs and snails eating potato plants

Slugs And Snails Eating Potato Plants: identification and removal

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

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how deep to plant potatoes

How Deep Should I Plant My Potatoes: why seed depth is important

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 »

rooster potatoes freshly dug laying on soil

Potato Variety Rooster: origin and characteristics

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

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russet norkotah potatoes

Potato Variety Russet Norkotah: origin and characteristics

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

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red desiree potatoes

Potato Variety Desiree: origin and characteristics

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

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kerrs pink potatoes

Potato Variety Kerr’s Pinks: origin and characteristics

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

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Potato Variety Russet Burbank: origin and characteristics

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

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potato plants grown in the garden

Copper Sulphate As A Potato Blight Spray: what is it and is it good?

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 on the leaves of a potato plant

Blight Resistant Potato Varieties: background and examples

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

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tobacco rattle virus in potato skin

Tobacco Rattle Virus In Potatoes: 6 easy steps to prevention

Potatoes are an easy-to-grow vegetable that can be planted in the early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. They typically produce well and provide you with an abundance of tubers. While they are generally disease-free (as long as you buy certified seed potatoes) they are not immune to all diseases. Tobacco Rattle

Tobacco Rattle Virus In Potatoes: 6 easy steps to prevention Read More »

eelworm damage on a potato

Eelworm In Potatoes: what is it and how do I remove or prevent it?

Eelworm is a parasitic nematode that lives in the soil and feeds on plant roots. Its host plants are nightshades and they particularly like potatoes and tomatoes. If you’re growing potatoes, it is extremely important to educate yourself on eelworms. If you like to grow a lot of potatoes and tomatoes, you’ll definitely want to

Eelworm In Potatoes: what is it and how do I remove or prevent it? Read More »

level soil behind potato drills for spreading

When To Harvest Potatoes: dates and descriptions

Potatoes are typically categorized into three main categories according to their days to maturity. They are classed as: early, mid-season, and maincrop potatoes. They may also be referred to as earlies, second earlies, and long-season or maincrop potatoes. While early and mid-season potatoes are typically harvested and eaten as new potatoes, late-season or maincrop potatoes

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how to hill up potatoes

How To Hill Up Potatoes: a guide using hand tools

Hello, fellow gardeners and potato enthusiasts! Today, we’ll be discussing an essential technique that can significantly improve your potato harvest: hilling. When you hill up potatoes, you’re encouraging the plants to produce more tubers, which means a bigger yield for you. This article will take you through the ins and outs of hilling, providing you

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what to spray potatoes with to control weeds

What To Spray Potatoes With To Control Weeds

Your potato fields should be sprayed with a broad-spectrum herbicide 6 weeks before ploughing and tilling. The planted area should be sprayed again with a broad-spectrum herbicide before the potato plants come through the ground -this is known as a pre-emergence spray. The spray should have residual activity – meaning it continues to work for

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the best tasting potatoes to grow

The Best Tasting Potatoes to Grow: variety selection

No matter how you slice, dice, or mash them, potatoes are delicious. A staple food for many cultures across the globe, they are a vegetable which would be difficult to live without. Although store-bought potatoes are tasty, nothing beats the flavor of a freshly unearthed tuber from your own garden. I will help you pick

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homemade potato blight spray

Homemade Potato Blight Spray: make your own

In this article, I will show you how to make two homemade potato blight sprays. One is called Bordeaux formula– made with lime and Copper sulphate. The other is called Cornell formula– made with dishwashing liquid and oil. Over 150 years ago, a fungal disease unknown to scientists invaded Ireland. Potato blight destroyed crops throughout

Homemade Potato Blight Spray: make your own Read More »

Choosing Where To Plant Potatoes

Choosing where to plant potatoes: finding space around the home

Choosing the best place to plant your potatoes will be different for everyone. We all have different areas available to grow things in. Some people may have fields, allotments, or a large vegetable garden. Others may only have access to growing potatoes in a raised bed, and some may choose to grow potatoes in a

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