‘Yukon Gold’ is a well-known old cultivar. It stores well. It has yellow flesh, and is relatively resistant to viruses. Potatoes are perennial plants grown as annual potatoes. They are related to eggplant, tomatoes and peppers. Potatoes require a frost-free growing season of 90 to 120 days. They are a cool weather crop and grow best in areas with cool summers. The ideal growing temperature for potatoes is between 60 and 70 degrees F. Hot weather reduces tuber production. Traditionally, potatoes are grown in the summer in the North and during the fall and winter in the South. Potatoes are grown from whole potatoes or from pieces called seeds. Each seed must have at least one eye. Potatoes need fertile, well-drained soil that is higher in organic matter and has a pH between 5.0 and 5.5. Plant in full sun, 4 inches deep and 18 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart. Potatoes are usually planted on hills or raised rows, to allow drainage. Fertilize again around mid-season. Even moisture and a good mulch layer will result in a better crop. Harvest time ranges from 75 to 130 days after planting. Dig up new potatoes after the plant has flowered, or if it doesn’t, after the leaves start to yellow. Potatoes sold in grocery stores are usually dug two weeks after the vines die in the fall. Crop rotation to prevent pests in the soil.
What is a seed potato?
I usually spend a short shopping trip browsing seed potatoes at our local hardware store. I try to find seed potatoes in February as they often sell out in early March. My advice is to GET IN EARLY! Have an idea of what types you want, and then see what’s available. As always, online shopping is always an option. Just remember to order soon! I learned with seed companies that the good stuff goes fast!
Ok, back to what a seed potato is. The only difference between a seed potato and a regular potato is that seed potatoes are generally a little smaller, dirtier and have lots of eyes. The eyes are small eyes from which roots and plant parts come. Any potato can become a seed potato! Seed potatoes are cheaper than food potatoes from the store and have not been treated with anti-sprouting chemicals.
Bulking Tubers
Tuber bulking is the fourth stage in potato plant development. Tuber cells swell and begin to absorb water, sugar, carbohydrates and nutrients. Most of the dry matter accumulates during this stage.
This stage of tuber growth lasts the longest and can take up to three months. The time required for tuber growth depends on the conditions you provide and the variety of potato.
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