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get white potato is a rewarding andpractical horticulture endeavorthat can provide you with an abundant harvest of alimentary - full-bodied tubers . Whether you ’re a seasoned gardener or a novice , this comprehensive scout will fit out you with the knowledge and proficiency necessary to civilise thriving potato plants .
Selecting the Right Variety
The first footstep in grow potatoes is select the right variety . There are numerous Solanum tuberosum varieties uncommitted , each withunique characteristicssuch as sizing , anatomy , color , and maturity sentence . view yourpersonal taste , clime , andgrowing conditionswhen fix your choice .
Preparing the Soil
Potatoes take well - enfeeble , fertile dirt with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 . Amend the soil with compost or manure toimprove fertilityand drain . Avoid planting potatoes in soil that is too heavy or waterlogged .
Planting Potatoes
When to Plant : Plant potatoesin the spring when thesoil temperaturehas reached at least 45 ° F ( 7 ° C).Spacing : Plant potatoes12 - 18 inches apart in rows that are 2 - 3 feet aside . Depth : industrial plant potatoes4 - 6inches deep , with the eye ( modest pitting ) facing up .
Watering and Fertilizing
Hilling Potatoes
Hilling potatoes is the process of mounding soil around the base of the industrial plant . This helps to patronize the plant andpromote tuber development . mound potatoes when they are 6 - 8 inches tall .
Pest and Disease Control
Potatoes can be susceptible to blighter and diseases . Common pests include aphid , Colorado potato beetle , and wireworms . Common diseases include blight , blackleg , and Verticillium wilt . follow through preventive measures such as crop rotation and using disease - tolerant sort . If necessary , process infestationsor diseases with appropriate pesticides or antifungal agent .
Harvesting Potatoes
When to Harvest : potato are ready to harvest when thefoliage turn yellowand begins to die back . How to Harvest : Use apotato forkor spade tocarefully digup the potatoes . Avoid damaging the tubers .
Storing Potatoes
Store potatoes in a coolheaded , dark , and well - ventilated area . idealistic storage conditions are between 40 - 50 ° F ( 4 - 10 ° C ) with 85 - 90 % humidity .
Tips for Success
FAQ
Q : Can Igrow potatoesin containers?A : Yes , potatoes can be grow in containers as long as they are gravid enough ( at least 15 gallons ) and have good drainage . Q : Why are my Irish potato leave sprain yellow?A : Yellowing leaves can be a foretoken ofnutrient inadequacy , overwatering , or disease . Check thesoil fertility , lachrymation schedule , and visit the plant life for any preindication of pests or disease . Q : How can I prevent potato scab?A : Potato scabis because of a soil - borne fungus . To prevent it , works potatoesin well - run out soil , avoid overfertilizing , and apply disease - resistant varieties .
