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Potatoes

Companion Planting for Potatoes: A Young Gardener’s Guide to Growing Healthy and Productive Potatoes

by Donna August 11, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Companion Planting for Potatoes: A Guide for Young Gardeners

Introduction

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves growing different plants together to benefit each other. This can help potatoes grow better, taste better, and resist pests and diseases.

Benefits of Companion Planting for Potatoes

Improved growth and taste
Reduced risk of pests and diseases
More efficient use of space

Choosing Companion Plants for Potatoes

Some plants make great companions for potatoes, while others can harm them. Here are some tips for choosing the best companion plants:

Good companions: cabbage, corn, beans, horseradish, lettuce, spinach, chamomile, basil, yarrow, parsley, thyme, petunias, alyssum
Bad companions: raspberry, tomato, cucumber, squash, pumpkin, carrots, asparagus, fennel, turnip, onions, sunflowers, eggplant, nightshade

Planting and Care

When planting companion plants for potatoes, keep these tips in mind:

Plant cabbage, corn, and beans around potato hills to improve their growth and taste.
Grow horseradish as a companion plant for potatoes to make them resistant to diseases.
Plant lettuce and spinach between rows of potatoes to save space and because they do not compete for nutrients.
Plant chamomile, basil, yarrow, parsley, and thyme around potatoes to improve their growth and flavor, while also attracting beneficial insects to the garden.
Plant petunias and alyssum to attract beneficial insects to potato plants.

Keeping Bugs Away from Potatoes

In addition to attracting beneficial insects, there are also several companion plants that can help deter harmful insects from potatoes.

Lamium: Improves potato flavor, encourages growth, and deters harmful insects.
Sage: Keeps flea beetles away.
Nasturtium, coriander, tansy, and catmint: Deter potato beetles.
Green beans: Deter potato beetles and add nitrogen to the soil, while potato plants deter the Mexican beetle from eating the green beans.
Marigolds: Deter harmful pests and protect potatoes from viral and bacterial diseases.

Additional Tips for Growing Potatoes

Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Plant potatoes in rows, spacing them about 12 inches apart.
Water potatoes regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize potatoes every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Hill up potatoes as they grow to prevent the tubers from being exposed to sunlight.
Harvest potatoes when the tops of the plants start to turn brown.

By following these tips, you can grow healthy and productive potato plants using companion planting techniques.

Vegetable Gardening

Fingerling Potatoes: A Guide to Growing, Cooking, and Enjoying This Colorful Vegetable

by Gregory July 26, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Fingerling Potatoes: A Colorful and Nutritious Vegetable

What are Fingerling Potatoes?

Fingerling potatoes are a type of heirloom potato that originated in South America. They are characterized by their long, knobby, finger-like shapes and thin skins. Fingerling potatoes come in a variety of colors, including yellow, red, and purple.

Nutritional Benefits of Fingerling Potatoes

Fingerling potatoes are a good source of nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage. The different colors of fingerling potatoes provide different nutritional benefits. For example, yellow fingerling potatoes are a good source of carotenoids, which are converted to vitamin A in the body. Red and purple fingerling potatoes contain anthocyanins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

How to Cook Fingerling Potatoes

Fingerling potatoes are a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. They can be roasted, baked, boiled, or fried. Their thin skins make them easy to cook and they can be eaten with or without peeling.

How to Grow Fingerling Potatoes

Fingerling potatoes are relatively easy to grow in your backyard garden. They can be planted in the spring or fall and will take about 120 days to mature. Fingerling potatoes prefer well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. They should be planted 2 to 4 inches deep and 12 inches apart.

Best Fingerling Potato Varieties

There are many different varieties of fingerling potatoes available. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Russian Banana
Purple Peruvian
Rose Finn Apple
Swedish Peanut
All Blue
Princess La Ratte

Each variety has its own unique flavor and texture. Experiment with different varieties to find the ones you like best.

Fingerling Potato Recipes

Fingerling potatoes are a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are a few ideas:

Roasted fingerling potatoes with rosemary and garlic
Fingerling potato salad with a mustard vinaigrette
Pan-fried fingerling potatoes with bacon and onions
Fingerling potato soup with leeks and cream
Fingerling potato gratin with cheese and herbs

Tips for Growing Fingerling Potatoes

Fingerling potatoes do not store as well as other types of potatoes, so it is best to eat them fresh.
If you are growing fingerling potatoes in a cold climate, you can store them in a cool, dark place for up to a few months.
Fingerling potatoes can be susceptible to diseases such as blight and scab. To prevent these diseases, make sure to plant your potatoes in well-drained soil and rotate your crops each year.

With their unique flavor and texture, fingerling potatoes are a great addition to any garden. They are easy to grow and can be used in a variety of recipes. So next time you are looking for a new vegetable to try, give fingerling potatoes a try!

Growing Vegetables

How to Grow Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Donna July 1, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

How to Grow Potatoes: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Potatoes are one of the most popular and versatile vegetables in the world. They are easy to grow and can be used in a variety of dishes. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to grow your own potatoes, from choosing the right variety to harvesting and storing your crop.

Choosing the Right Potato Variety

There are many different varieties of potatoes available, each with its own unique flavor, texture, and growing requirements. When choosing a variety, consider the following factors:

When you want to harvest: Early potatoes are ready to harvest in June and July, while maincrop potatoes are ready in August and October.
How you want to use them: Some potatoes are best for boiling, while others are better for baking or roasting.
Your climate: Some varieties are more resistant to pests and diseases than others.

Preparing the Soil

Potatoes grow best in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Before planting, dig the soil to a depth of 12 inches and remove any weeds or debris. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve fertility.

Planting Potatoes

Seed potatoes: Potatoes are grown from seed potatoes, which are small tubers that have been specially treated to prevent disease.
Planting time: Early potatoes can be planted in March or April, while maincrop potatoes should be planted in April or May.
Spacing: Plant seed potatoes 12 inches apart and 3 inches deep.
Orientation: Plant the seed potatoes with the eyes (small indentations) facing upwards.

Caring for Potatoes

Watering: Potatoes need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water the plants at the base, avoiding the leaves.
Fertilizing: Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Hilling: As the plants grow, hill up the soil around the base of the stems to prevent the tubers from turning green.
Pest and disease control: Potatoes are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including potato blight, aphids, and Colorado potato beetles. Monitor your plants regularly and take steps to control any problems.

Harvesting Potatoes

Early potatoes: Early potatoes are ready to harvest when the plants are still flowering and the tubers are about the size of a golf ball.
Maincrop potatoes: Maincrop potatoes are ready to harvest when the leaves have turned yellow and died back.
Harvesting method: Gently dig up the potatoes using a fork or spade. Avoid damaging the tubers.

Storing Potatoes

Curing: After harvesting, potatoes should be cured in a cool, dark place for two to three weeks. This will help them to develop a thicker skin and improve their storage life.
Storage: Store potatoes in a cool, dark place with good ventilation. Ideal storage temperature is between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for Growing Potatoes

Use certified seed potatoes: Certified seed potatoes are free from disease and will produce a better crop.
Chit the potatoes before planting: Chitting is the process of sprouting the potatoes before planting. This will give them a head start and increase the yield.
Plant potatoes in a sunny location: Potatoes need at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy: Potatoes need regular watering, but avoid overwatering.
Harvest the potatoes when they are mature: Harvesting potatoes too early will result in a lower yield and poorer quality tubers.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Potato blight: Potato blight is a fungal disease that can devastate potato crops. Prevent potato blight by using resistant varieties and avoiding planting potatoes in the same location year after year.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can suck the sap from potato plants. Control aphids by spraying the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Colorado potato beetles: Colorado potato beetles are large, brightly colored beetles that can eat the leaves of potato plants. Control Colorado potato beetles by handpicking them or using an insecticidal spray.

Month-by-Month Gardening

June Gardening: A Month of Plenty | Harvest, Plant, and Care for Your Crops

by Donna April 29, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

June Gardening: A Month of Plenty

Harvesting

June is a great month to harvest your homegrown fruits and vegetables. Strawberries, gooseberries, potatoes, lettuces, and more are all ready to be picked.

Strawberries: Protect your strawberries from birds with netting and pick them when they’re ripe.
Potatoes: Dig up early potato varieties for a soft, sweet harvest.
Gooseberries: Cover your gooseberry plants with netting to keep birds away.
Lettuce: Pick your lettuce on a dry day and wash it thoroughly before eating.
Other crops: You can also harvest carrots, parsnips, beetroot, beans, and sweetcorn in June.

Planting and Sowing

There’s still time to plant or sow a second batch of crops in June.

French beans: Sow dwarf or climbing French beans directly into the soil.
Lettuce: Start a new batch of lettuce by sowing seeds in a cool place or buying plug plants.
Other crops: You can also sow salads, carrots, parsnips, beetroot, beans, and sweetcorn now.

Caring for Crops

Tomatoes: Pinch out sideshoots to encourage fruit production.
Apples and pears: Thin out fruits to get larger, fully-formed ones.
Plants in containers: Water your plants regularly, especially in hot weather.
Pest and disease control: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and treat them accordingly.

Tips

Recycle pots and trays when starting new crops.
Check for local plant pot recycling schemes.
Add a half-strength liquid plant food to your watering can when watering container plants.
Sow cut-and-come-again lettuce leaves for a steady supply of greens.
Check your seed packets for leftover seeds that you can sow now.

Vegetable Gardening

Growing Potatoes from Seed Potatoes: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory August 5, 2023

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Growing Potatoes from Seed Potatoes: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Growing potatoes from seed potatoes is a rewarding experience for home gardeners. With a little know-how, you can cultivate a bountiful harvest of delicious potatoes in your own backyard.

Choosing the Right Seed Potatoes

When selecting seed potatoes, it’s crucial to choose varieties that thrive in your climate and suit your taste preferences. Research different potato varieties to find ones that are well-suited to your growing conditions and produce the flavors and textures you enjoy.

Where to Buy Seed Potatoes

Avoid using potatoes from the grocery store as seed potatoes, as they may have been treated with chemicals to prevent sprouting or harbor diseases. Instead, purchase certified disease-free seed potatoes from reputable seed potato dealers.

Cutting Seed Potatoes

Cutting seed potatoes is not mandatory, but it can increase your yield. Cut potatoes into pieces with at least one “eye” (sprout) per piece, and ensure each piece weighs at least an ounce. Allow the cut pieces to cure in a cool, humid place for a few days to prevent disease and rot.

Planting Seed Potatoes

Plant seed potatoes after the last frost has passed, but while there is still a risk of light frosts. Dig holes 2-3 inches deep and 24 inches apart. Place the seed potato pieces in the holes with the eyes facing up, and cover them with soil.

Caring for Seed Potatoes

Watering: Water your seed potatoes regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to rot.
Fertilizing: Fertilize your potato plants with a balanced fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Hilling: As the potato plants grow, hill them up by mounding soil around the base of the plants. This supports the stems and prevents the potatoes from being exposed to sunlight, which can turn them green and bitter.
Protecting from Frost: If a late frost is forecasted, cover your potato plants with a blanket or tarp to protect them from damage.

Harvesting Potatoes

Potatoes are typically ready to harvest when the tops of the plants start to die back and the skins of the potatoes are firm. Carefully dig up the potatoes using a shovel or garden fork. Avoid bruising them, as this can lead to spoilage.

Tips for Success

Choose high-quality, certified disease-free seed potatoes.
Plant potatoes in well-drained soil that receives plenty of sunlight.
Cut seed potatoes properly and cure them before planting.
Water and fertilize your potato plants regularly.
Hill up the plants to support them and prevent the potatoes from turning green.
Protect your potatoes from frost and pests.

Vegetable Gardening

Growing Edibles in March: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory August 26, 2021

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Growing Edibles in March: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Spring is in the air, and it’s time to start thinking about growing your own delicious fruits and vegetables. March is a great month to get started, as the weather is warming up and the days are getting longer. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of the growing season:

Sowing Seeds Outdoors

March is a great time to sow seeds outdoors, as the soil is warming up and the days are getting longer. Some of the vegetables that you can sow in March include carrots, salad leaves, spring onions, and beetroot.

To sow seeds outdoors, first check the ground temperature. It should be at least 10 degrees Celsius for a few hours during the day to guarantee germination. You can use a soil thermometer to check the temperature, or you can simply feel the soil with your hand. If it feels warm to the touch, it’s warm enough to sow seeds.

Next, prepare the soil by raking it to remove any weeds or debris. Then, use a hoe to create a shallow drill, about 2cm deep. Water the drill thoroughly, then sow the seeds thinly along the bottom of the drill. Cover the seeds with soil and tamp it down gently.

Keep the soil moist, but not soggy. You should see germination within a couple of weeks.

Growing Tomatoes in a Greenhouse

If you have a greenhouse, you can start growing tomatoes in March. To do this, you will need to move your tomato seedlings from their seed trays into individual pots.

Fill 9cm pots with a mix of peat-free potting compost and John Innes no 3. Firm the compost into the pots, then make a deep hole in the center of each pot with a dibber.

Carefully remove the tomato seedlings from their seed trays, being careful not to damage the roots. Place each seedling in a hole, and gently firm the compost around the roots. Water the seedlings well.

Place the pots on a bench in the greenhouse, and keep them warm and moist. In a few weeks, the seedlings will be ready to be planted outdoors.

Harvesting Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a perennial vegetable that is easy to grow and produces a delicious tart flavor. March is a great time to harvest rhubarb, as the stems are still sweet and tender.

To harvest rhubarb, simply grip the stem near the base and give it a firm twist to pull it away from the crown. Trim off the thin sheath that surrounds the stem before cooking.

Stop harvesting rhubarb from young plants by the summer to give them a chance to recover and strengthen for longer picking next year.

Planting Potatoes

Potatoes are a staple food crop that is easy to grow in the home garden. March is a good time to plant early potatoes, as they will be ready to harvest in 10-12 weeks.

To plant potatoes, dig a trench 10-15cm deep. Space the potatoes about 30cm apart and have the chits or small shoots facing up. Cover the tubers back over with soil.

In as little as a fortnight, the shoots will emerge and need frost protection. You can either rake loose soil over them or cover them with straw and compost.

Keep earthing up the potatoes as they grow to block the light from the new potatoes.

Additional Tips

Keep a record of when you plant your seeds and potatoes. This will help you to track their progress and know when to expect a harvest.
Water your plants regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilize your plants every few weeks to give them the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.
Protect your plants from pests and diseases by using organic methods such as companion planting and crop rotation.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh fruits and vegetables from your own garden all season long.