Apache Potatoes: Growing in the UK

Apache potatoes are a second early potato variety known for their striking red-and-white skin and good all-round performance. They are easy to grow, reliable in UK conditions, and popular with gardeners who want something a little different without sacrificing yield or flavour.

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What Are Apache Potatoes?

Apache is a second early potato variety with cream-coloured flesh and distinctive red splashes on pale skin. The tubers are oval to round and fairly uniform in size. Apache potatoes have a medium texture, sitting between waxy and floury, which makes them versatile in the kitchen.

They are best eaten fresh and are not intended for long-term storage.

When to Plant Apache Potatoes

In the UK, Apache potatoes are usually planted:

• Late March to early April, once the soil is workable and not waterlogged

Chitting seed potatoes before planting helps encourage quicker emergence and stronger early growth.

How to Grow Apache Potatoes

Soil Preparation

Apache potatoes grow best in fertile, well-drained soil. Before planting, dig in well-rotted compost or organic matter to improve soil structure and nutrient levels.

Planting Depth and Spacing

• Plant seed potatoes 10–15 cm deep
• Space plants 30 cm apart
• Leave 60 cm between rows

Apache also grows well in raised beds and large containers.

Earthing Up

As shoots appear, gradually earth up soil around the stems. This protects developing tubers from light and improves yields.

Watering

Water regularly during dry spells, especially when plants are flowering and tubers are forming. Avoid waterlogging, as Apache potatoes dislike very wet soil.

Feeding

Apply a balanced fertiliser at planting time. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can encourage leaf growth rather than tuber development.

Growing Apache Potatoes in Containers

Apache potatoes are suitable for container growing:

• Use containers at least 40–45 cm deep
• Fill with free-draining compost
• Earth up gradually with additional compost
• Water consistently, as containers dry out quickly

When to Harvest Apache Potatoes

Apache potatoes are usually ready to harvest:

• 13–15 weeks after planting

Harvest when plants are flowering or have just finished flowering. Tubers are best lifted while skins are still thin.

How to Harvest Apache Potatoes

• Loosen soil carefully with a fork
• Lift gently to avoid damaging skins
• Harvest as needed rather than lifting the whole crop at once

Apache potatoes are best eaten soon after harvesting.

Common Problems When Growing Apache Potatoes

• Dry soil reducing tuber size
• Slug damage in damp conditions
• Blight risk is lower due to early harvest but still possible in wet summers

Good spacing and airflow help reduce disease risk.

Best Uses for Apache Potatoes

Apache potatoes are ideal for:

• Boiling
• Roasting
• Wedges
• Light mashing

They also work well as a general-purpose summer potato.

Why Grow Apache Potatoes?

• Attractive red-and-white skin
• Reliable second early crop
• Versatile cooking uses
• Easy to grow in UK conditions

Tips for Best Results

• Always chit seed potatoes before planting
• Keep soil evenly moist
• Harvest while tubers are young for best flavour
• Rotate crops yearly to reduce disease problems