How to Plant Potatoes in Containers

Potatoes are a staple for many households, but not everyone has the space or yard to plant them in a traditional garden. Fortunately, potatoes can also be grown in containers, making it possible for anyone to enjoy fresh potatoes right from their own home. In this article, we'll go over the steps on how to plant potatoes in containers.

Choosing a Container

The first step in planting potatoes in containers is to choose the right container. Potatoes require a lot of room for their roots to grow, so it's important to choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide. The container can be made of plastic, wood, or even a large fabric grow bag.

Preparing the Container

Once you have your container, it's important to prepare it for planting. Fill the container with a high-quality potting mix, leaving about 2-3 inches of space at the top. It's important to use a potting mix that is rich in organic matter, as potatoes need a lot of nutrients to grow properly.

Preparing the Potatoes

Before planting your potatoes, it's important to prepare them properly. First, choose seed potatoes that are certified disease-free, as this will help prevent disease from spreading to your plants. Cut the seed potatoes into pieces that are about 2 inches wide, making sure that each piece has at least one "eye," which is where the sprout will grow from. Let the cut potatoes sit for a day or two to allow the cut sides to dry out.

Planting the Potatoes

Once your container and potatoes are prepared, you're ready to plant! Place the potato pieces on top of the potting mix, with the sprouts facing up. Space the potato pieces about 6 inches apart from each other, making sure that they are evenly spaced throughout the container. Cover the potato pieces with another 2-3 inches of potting mix, pressing down gently to ensure good soil contact.

Caring for the Plants

After planting your potatoes, it's important to care for them properly. Water the container deeply, making sure that the potting mix is evenly moist but not waterlogged. As your potatoes grow, continue to add more potting mix to the container to cover the stem, leaving just a few inches of leaves poking out. This will encourage the potatoes to grow upward rather than sideways. When the plants reach about 6 inches tall, add a layer of mulch to help keep the soil moist and cool.

Harvesting the Potatoes

Potatoes are ready to be harvested when the leaves have died back and turned yellow. To harvest your potatoes, carefully dump the container out onto a tarp or newspaper. Sort through the soil to find your potatoes, being careful not to damage them. Store your harvested potatoes in a cool, dark place for several weeks to allow the skins to harden before eating.

In conclusion, planting potatoes in containers is a fun and easy way to enjoy fresh potatoes right from your own home. By choosing the right container, preparing the potatoes properly, and caring for the plants, you can easily grow a bountiful crop of potatoes in no time. Happy planting!