What Do You Plant Pot Potatoes In?

Potatoes are a great addition to any garden, but many gardeners are unsure of where to plant them. Potatoes require a certain type of soil and environment to grow properly. In this article, we will explore the different types of containers and soil that are best for growing potatoes.

Potatoes in Containers

One of the best ways to grow potatoes is in containers. This allows for better control of soil conditions, water levels, and pests. There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a container:

Size: Containers should be at least 15 inches deep and 18 inches wide, with enough space for the potato plants to grow.

Drainage: Containers should have holes in the bottom for drainage.

Material: Containers made of porous materials like plastic, fabric, or wood are best. These materials allow for proper drainage and aeration of the soil.

When planting potatoes in containers, it is important to choose the right planting medium:

Soil: Potatoes do best in loose, well-draining soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0. A good planting medium consists of equal parts of peat moss, perlite or vermiculite, and compost or aged manure.

Seed Potatoes: Select seed potatoes with eyes, or sprouts, on them. Cut them into pieces with at least two eyes and let them dry for a day or two before planting.

Planting in Garden Beds

If you choose to plant potatoes directly in a garden bed, it's important to choose the right location and soil:

Soil Type: Potatoes prefer loose, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0. Sandy or sandy loam soils are best.

Location: Potatoes prefer full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. They also prefer cooler temperatures and should be planted in the spring and fall.

Seed Potatoes: Select seed potatoes with eyes, or sprouts, on them. Cut them into pieces with at least two eyes and let them dry for a day or two before planting.

When planting potatoes in a garden bed, make sure to leave enough space between plants:

Spacing: Plant seed potatoes 10-12 inches apart and 4-6 inches deep in rows spaced 30-36 inches apart.

Fertilizer: Mix aged manure or compost into the soil before planting to provide nutrients.

Mulch: Add a layer of mulch to the soil after planting to conserve moisture and prevent weeds.

Caring for Your Potatoes

Potatoes require consistent care throughout their growing season:

Water: Water deeply once a week to keep the soil consistently moist. Too much water can lead to rot, while too little water can lead to stunted growth.

Fertilizer: Fertilize with a low-nitrogen fertilizer when the plants are 6-8 inches tall and again when they start to flower.

Pests: Watch for pests like potato beetles and aphids, and remove them by hand or with an insecticidal soap.

Harvesting: Harvest potatoes when the tops of the plants turn yellow and start to die back. Carefully dig them up with a garden fork or spade and let them dry in the sun for a few days before storing.

With these tips, you can successfully grow potatoes in containers or garden beds. Enjoy your fresh, homegrown potatoes!