Can You Plant a Potato That Has Sprouted?

Have you ever had a potato that has started to sprout? Before tossing it in the trash, have you considered planting it? Can you plant a potato that has sprouted? The short answer is yes, you can.

When a potato begins to sprout, it is a sign that it is ready to grow. The sprouts themselves are called eyes, which are the points from which stems will eventually grow. If you plant your sprouted potato, you can grow your own potato plants.

How to Plant a Sprouted Potato

First, select a potato that has sprouted, making sure it is healthy and has no soft spots or signs of rot. It is best to use seed potatoes if possible, as these are specifically grown for planting.

Next, cut the potato into pieces, making sure each piece has at least one sprout. Let the cut pieces sit for a day or two to allow them to dry out and form a protective layer.

Once your potato pieces have dried out, it's time to plant them. The best time to plant potatoes is in the spring, after the last frost. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Plant each potato piece about 4-6 inches deep, with the sprouts facing up. Cover with soil and water well.

Caring for Your Potato Plants

As your potato plants begin to grow, it is important to keep them well-watered and to weed around them regularly. Add fertilizer to the soil periodically to encourage healthy growth.

As the plants grow taller, you may need to add soil around the base to keep the developing potatoes covered. This helps to prevent them from turning green, which can cause them to become bitter and inedible.

Harvesting Your Potatoes

After approximately 100 days, your potato plants should be ready to harvest. Wait until the foliage dies back before harvesting, as this signals that the potatoes are mature.

Carefully dig around the plants, being careful not to damage the developing potatoes. Gently lift the plants out of the soil and remove the potatoes. Allow them to dry out before storing them in a cool, dark place.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, can you plant a potato that has sprouted? Yes, you can! It's a great way to recycle your old potatoes and grow your own tasty crop. With a little care and attention, you can have a bountiful harvest of fresh, homegrown potatoes.