Can You Plant Potato Sprouts?

Potatoes are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. Many people enjoy growing their own potatoes, as it can be a fun and rewarding experience. If you've ever had potatoes sitting around for too long, you may have noticed that they start to develop sprouts. This may lead you to wonder, can you plant potato sprouts?

What are Potato Sprouts?

When potatoes are left for too long in a warm, humid environment, they will start to develop sprouts. These sprouts are actually new plants that are trying to grow from the potato. While it may seem like a waste to throw away potatoes with sprouts, many people wonder if it's safe and effective to plant them.

Planting Potato Sprouts

The good news is, you can plant potato sprouts! In fact, many people do this as a way to grow more potatoes without having to buy seed potatoes. To get started, select the potato with the most prominent sprout. Cut the potato into pieces, making sure each piece has at least one sprout. Let the cut potatoes dry overnight so that they form a skin.

Next, find a location in your garden that receives full sun for most of the day. Potatoes need a lot of sun to grow properly. Dig a trench that is about 6-8 inches deep, and place the potato pieces in the trench with the sprouts facing up. Cover the potatoes with soil, making sure they are fully covered. Water the potatoes well.

Caring for Potato Sprouts

Once your potato sprouts are planted, it's important to take care of them. Potatoes need a lot of water, so make sure to water them regularly, especially during dry spells. As the plants grow, you'll want to mound soil around the stems to keep the potatoes covered. This will prevent them from turning green and becoming inedible.

In addition to watering and mounding soil, you'll also want to give your potato plants plenty of fertilizer. Potatoes are heavy feeders and need a lot of nutrients to grow properly. You can use a balanced fertilizer once a month to help your plants grow strong and healthy.

Harvesting Potato Sprouts

Potatoes take about 90-120 days to mature, depending on the variety. You'll know they're ready to harvest when the tops of the plants start to turn yellow and wither. Carefully dig up the potatoes from the soil, being careful not to damage them.

Once you've harvested your potatoes, you can enjoy them in a variety of dishes. Roast them, mash them, or use them in your favorite recipes. Growing potatoes from sprouts is a fun and easy way to enjoy fresh, flavorful potatoes right from your own garden.

Conclusion

If you're wondering if you can plant potato sprouts, the answer is yes! In fact, it can be a fun and rewarding experience to grow your own potatoes from sprouts. By following the steps above and taking good care of your plants, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, delicious potatoes in no time.