I love growing potatoes. While not the easiest vegetable in the garden to grow, they are quite rewarding. Seriously, there’s nothing more buttery than a freshly harvested spud. However, there are a things to note when growing them.
Number one: They are susceptible to fungus diseases. Ick. Not fun and this stuff spreads quickly. You’ll definitely want to keep your potato plants away from their cousins the tomato. Both are prone to the same issues and will share the sickness.
Number two: Hilling potatoes is an important aspect to fostering good growth. “Hilling” basically means as it sounds. As your potato plants grow upward, draw more soil up and around the plant leaving about 8 inches of plant height above the soil. This will do two things. First, it will encourage more growth. More growth = more potatoes. Perfect!
Second, it will prevent the top potatoes from turning green rendering them ill-suited for human consumption. It’s basically sunburn for potatoes and easily avoided. So hill those taters!
When the top foliage of the plant dies back, that’s your clue it’s harvest time. Simply dig into the soil around your potatoes being VERY CAREFUL not to poke or scratch them. At this point, their outer skin will be quite delicate. If you cut it, you won’t be able to cure your potato as well.
You can always harvest a couple of months after planting if you want a crop of baby “new potatoes.” They’re all delicious! Once harvested, try one of my recipes like Rosemary Potatoes and Cabbage Potato Bake. Or how about Skillet Potatoes and Onions. In my garden, the sweet onions are ready now, too!
Leave a Reply