Guides

Growing Guide

STORAGE
After purchase, carefully empty seed potato contents into shallow boxes or trays. Egg boxes or apple trays are ideal. Store in a cool area but protect from frost.

1. CHITTING
Two weeks before planting move the potatoes into natural light and a temperature of about 10°C (50°F). Sprouts should appear. This step is optional, but may improve grow time. The potatoes may turn green when exposed to light, this is normal. Protect from frost.

2. PLANTING
Dig your potato plot in Autumn or Spring so the potatoes can easily be planted once soil temperatures are over 8°C. Large or high yield varieties may need larger drills than other varieties of the same maturity. Adjust your drill dimensions accordingly to account for the varieties typical yield, the time you plan to grow them for, and the weather, where better growing weather may increase expected yield and the size and spacing of drills.

Maturity	Depth	Width	Margin	Space
First Early	15cm / 6”	60cm / 24”	30cm / 12”	25cm / 10”
Salad	15cm / 6”	60cm / 24”	30cm / 12”	25cm / 10”
Second Early	15cm / 6”	70cm / 28”	35cm / 14”	30cm / 12”
Maincrop	15cm / 6”	70cm / 28”	35cm / 14”	37cm / 15”

 

3. GROWING
When potatoes have emerged a few inches, pull earth around the plant with a rake, leaving peaked rows. Earthing-up gives the plant more soil to grow in, stops sunlight turning exposed tubers green, and improves drainage. It is also a quick and effective way of controlling weeds. Repeat the process as required, until the foliage is too big. Use frost blankets, tunnels, or greenhousing to protect your crop from frost.

4. HARVEST
First Earlies are best enjoyed when they are small and fresh in June/July/August and Second Earlies follow on. Maincrop varieties are best left until October for size and skin set. Once the Maincrop foliage has died back the potatoes should be left in the ground for 2-3 weeks to allow the skins to set, ready for storing. Before harvesting, carefully scrape away some soil and check the potatoes have grown to the size that you like.

 

---

Culinary Guide