immediate summary
Growing new potatoes in containers is a rewarding endeavor that can provide you with fresh , homegrown produceeven in urban or space - constrained environments . Thisdetailed guidewill walk you through the full summons , from choosing the right container and soil to harvest your yummy spuds .
Choosing the Right Container
The size and shape of your container will calculate on how many plants you want to grow . For asingle plant , a 5 - gallon bucketful or dope will do . If you plan to grow multiple plants , choose a gravid container , such as a half - barrelful orraised bed . The container should havedrainage holesto prevent waterlogging .
Preparing the Soil
New potato require well - drained , fertile soil . A intermixture ofpotting soil , compost , and sand is idealistic . Thesoil pHshould be between 6.0 and 7.0 . Before planting , amend the soil with a balanced fertiliser .
Selecting Seed Potatoes
Choose certified seed potatoes that are disease - free . search for varieties that are suitable for container gardening , such as ‘ Red Norland ’ , ‘ Yukon Gold ‘ , or ‘ Fingerling ’ .
Planting the Potatoes
Plant theseed potatoes2 - 3inches deep , with theeyes facingup . Space the potatoes 6 - 8 inches apart . Water the Solanum tuberosum well after planting .
Watering
New potatoes needregular lacrimation , peculiarly during hot , dry conditions . urine theplants deeply , but avoid overwatering . Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings .
Fertilizing
Fertilize the potatoes every 2 - 3 weeks with abalanced fertilizer . Stop fertilizing when theplants beginto blossom .
Hilling
Hilling is the process of overcompensate the cornerstone of the plants with dirt . This helps to support the works and prevent them from tumble over . Hill the Solanum tuberosum as they grow , adding soilup to the root of the leaves .
Harvesting
raw potatoes are ready to glean when theplants startto pass back . Gently toil up the tater using a fork or spade . Brush off anyexcess soiland store the potatoes in a cool , dark-skinned topographic point .
Troubleshooting
Problem : The leaves are turning sensationalistic . Solution : This could be a sign ofnitrogen insufficiency . feed the industrial plant with a nitrogen - robust fertiliser . Problem : The white potato vine are small or deformed . Solution : This could be due to overwatering , underwatering , ornutrient insufficiency . Adjust your lachrymation andfertilizing scheduleaccordingly .
What People Want to Know
Q : Can I grow new potatoes in a hanging basket?A : Yes , but you will ask to utilise alarge hang basketwith undecomposed drainage . Q : How long does it take to develop new potato in a container?A : From implant to harvest , it look at about 10 - 12 week . Q : Can I stack away new potatoes in the refrigerator?A : Yes , but they will only last for a few week . It is best to put in them in a nerveless , black placewith good ventilation .
