There is simply no end to the values of potatoes; it is healthy and can be cooked in different delicious ways. Cultivating potatoes is easy; there are different varieties you could try out, and potatoes nutrition is quite high. Knowing that the potatoes you’ve planted are free of pests is a reassuring feeling, and we would be sharing some tips about cultivating potatoes in the article; let’s dive right in.
Pick the Right Seed
When you’re looking to cultivate potatoes, the first step to take is to pick the right seed. Ensure the seed potatoes are free of any kind of germs or disease because it could hamper your cultivation. The best choice is to use certified seed potatoes; they are free of any form of pest or diseases; you’re assured of a clean and healthy seed potato.
Pre-Sprout Them
To give your seeds a good head start, it is advised that you chit them or pre-sprout them before actually planting them on the soil.
Give it Enough Sun
Potatoes need sun and, therefore, should be planted in a location where it can get up to eight hours of sun every day to ensure it grows with its full potatoes nutrition. Also, make sure that the soil is well-drained and also acidic.
Early Spring Planting is Ideal
The ideal period to plant your potatoes is when the weather is cool and, therefore, should be cultivated in early spring once the temperature of the soil gets to 45°F. When you plant potatoes on wet soil, it could lead to the rotting of your potatoes; therefore, it is best to hold on till the soil is a bit dry before going ahead with your planting.
Consistent Watering is Key
Watering your potatoes is important to ensure that it grows appropriately; make sure that the moisture level of your potatoes is about two inches every week.
Keep it Covered
If you don’t want your potatoes to form a green skin, then the best thing to do is always cover your potatoes with soil to ensure light doesn’t reach the taters.
Full Maturity Aids Storage
Although you can choose to harvest your potatoes once they’ve bloomed in order to enjoy the full potatoes nutrition, it is best to let it mature fully if you plan to store them up and make sure they’re stored in a dark, covered, but airy place, so they don’t begin to rot.
Rotate the Potato Crop to Ensure a Healthy Soil
If you want your soil to remain healthy, it is advised that you don’t plant potatoes in the same spot until after every three or four years. You can choose to plant beans or a cover crop after cultivating potatoes to ensure a healthy planting soil.