Charlotte Potatoes: How to Grow, Harvest and Cook Them
Charlotte potatoes are one of the most popular potato varieties grown in the UK, and it’s easy to understand why. With their delicious flavour, smooth yellow skins and firm, waxy texture, they’re fantastic for everything from summer potato salads to traditional Sunday dinners.
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Whether you’re growing potatoes on an allotment, in a vegetable garden or in containers on your patio, Charlotte potatoes are an excellent choice for gardeners of all experience levels.
Here at Gardening with Ben, growing your own potatoes is one of the most rewarding parts of the gardening year. There’s something wonderful about planting a few seed potatoes in spring, watching the plants develop and eventually digging into the soil to discover your harvest.
Charlotte potatoes are particularly well suited to gardeners who enjoy harvesting delicious new potatoes during the summer months.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Charlotte potatoes, including when to plant them, how to prepare seed potatoes, growing them in the ground or containers, watering, feeding, harvesting, storing and cooking them.
What Are Charlotte Potatoes?
Charlotte potatoes are a popular second early potato variety known for their attractive elongated tubers, smooth yellow skins and creamy yellow flesh.
They have a firm, waxy texture, meaning they generally hold their shape well during cooking.
This makes them particularly suitable for boiling, steaming, salads and other dishes where you want the potatoes to remain intact.
Charlotte potatoes are often described as having a delicate, slightly nutty flavour.
They are commonly sold as salad potatoes in UK supermarkets and are also widely available as certified seed potatoes for home growing.
Charlotte Potato Characteristics
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Variety | Charlotte |
| Potato type | Second early |
| Skin colour | Yellow |
| Flesh colour | Creamy yellow |
| Shape | Oval to elongated |
| Texture | Waxy and firm |
| Flavour | Mild, buttery and slightly nutty |
| Main planting period | March–April |
| Typical harvesting period | June–August |
| Growing time | Approximately 13–17 weeks |
| Best cooking methods | Boiling, steaming, salads and sautéing |
Actual planting and harvesting dates depend on local weather, soil conditions and when the potatoes were planted.
Are Charlotte Potatoes First Early or Second Early?
Charlotte potatoes are generally classified as second early potatoes.
This means they usually take longer to mature than first early varieties but can be harvested before most maincrop potatoes.
Second early potatoes typically take around 13–17 weeks from planting to harvest.
However, this is only a guide.
Weather conditions, soil temperature, watering and the size of the tubers you want to harvest can all influence when they’re ready.
If you enjoy small, tender new potatoes, you can begin checking the crop once the plants have developed well and the expected harvesting period approaches.
For larger potatoes, allow the plants more time to mature.
Why Grow Charlotte Potatoes?
There are plenty of reasons why Charlotte potatoes deserve a place in your vegetable garden.
Excellent Flavour
Charlotte potatoes have a delicious flavour that works particularly well in simple dishes.
A bowl of freshly harvested Charlotte potatoes with a little butter and chopped mint is a wonderful summer treat.
Firm Texture
Their waxy flesh helps them retain their shape when boiled or steamed.
This makes them ideal for salads and dishes where floury potatoes might break apart.
Suitable for Containers
Charlotte potatoes can be grown in large containers, potato bags and suitable buckets.
This is useful for gardeners with limited growing space.
Reliable Summer Harvests
When grown in suitable conditions, Charlotte potatoes can provide a rewarding crop during the summer.
Versatile in the Kitchen
They can be boiled, steamed, roasted, sautéed or used in potato salads.
Although they’re not usually the first choice for fluffy mashed potatoes, they’re excellent for many other recipes.
When to Plant Charlotte Potatoes in the UK
The best time to plant Charlotte potatoes in the UK is generally from March to April.
In milder regions, planting may begin during March when soil conditions are suitable.
In colder northern or exposed areas, waiting until April may be more sensible.
The most important consideration is the condition of the soil.
Avoid planting potatoes into frozen or waterlogged ground.
Potatoes grow best when the soil has begun warming and excess winter moisture has drained away.
Charlotte Potato Planting Calendar
| Month | Gardening activity |
|---|---|
| January | Purchase certified seed potatoes |
| February | Begin chitting seed potatoes |
| March | Start planting where conditions allow |
| April | Main planting period |
| May | Earth up plants and protect from frost |
| June | Begin checking early plantings |
| July | Main harvesting period for many crops |
| August | Harvest later plantings |
| September | Clear remaining plants and inspect stored potatoes |
| October | Plan next year’s growing area |
| November | Improve soil where appropriate |
| December | Plan varieties for the following season |
This calendar is a general UK guide rather than a fixed schedule.
How to Chit Charlotte Seed Potatoes
Chitting is the process of encouraging seed potatoes to develop short, sturdy shoots before planting.
Although chitting is not essential, it can be useful for early potato varieties.
Step 1: Choose Healthy Seed Potatoes
Purchase certified seed potatoes from a reputable supplier.
Certified seed potatoes are produced under controls designed to reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Avoid using potatoes showing signs of rot, severe damage or disease.
Step 2: Place Them in a Tray
Arrange the seed potatoes in an egg box, seed tray or shallow container.
Position them with the end containing the greatest concentration of eyes facing upwards where possible.
Step 3: Choose a Bright Position
Keep the potatoes somewhere cool, bright and frost-free.
A temperature of approximately 8–12°C is suitable.
Avoid placing them in a dark, warm cupboard because this can encourage long, weak shoots.
Step 4: Allow Shoots to Develop
Over several weeks, short shoots should begin appearing.
Ideally, these should be sturdy and relatively compact.
Step 5: Plant When Conditions Are Suitable
Once the soil has warmed sufficiently and the weather is appropriate, the seed potatoes can be planted.
Handle them carefully to avoid damaging the developing shoots.
Best Soil for Growing Charlotte Potatoes
Charlotte potatoes grow best in fertile, well-drained soil containing plenty of organic matter.
They prefer soil that retains enough moisture to support tuber development without remaining waterlogged.
A slightly acidic soil is generally suitable for potatoes.
A pH of approximately 5.0–6.0 can help reduce the risk of common scab, although potatoes can grow successfully across a somewhat wider range.
Preparing the Soil
Before planting:
- Remove perennial weeds from the growing area.
- Avoid digging when the soil is excessively wet.
- Break up large clods to create a workable planting area.
- Incorporate suitable well-rotted organic matter where needed.
- Remove large stones that could interfere with tuber development.
- Level the soil before making planting trenches.
Avoid applying fresh manure directly before planting, as this may encourage common scab and cause other growing problems.
Well-rotted organic matter incorporated in advance is generally preferable.
How to Plant Charlotte Potatoes in the Ground
Planting Charlotte potatoes in the ground is straightforward.
Step 1: Prepare the Planting Area
Choose a sunny position with reasonably fertile, well-drained soil.
Potatoes generally perform best with at least six hours of direct sunlight during the growing season.
Step 2: Dig a Trench
Dig a trench approximately 10–15cm deep.
The exact depth can be adjusted according to soil conditions.
Step 3: Position the Seed Potatoes
Place the seed potatoes into the trench with their shoots facing upwards where possible.
Allow approximately 30–35cm between individual potatoes.
Step 4: Space the Rows
Leave approximately 60–75cm between rows.
This provides space for plant development, earthing up and harvesting.
Step 5: Cover with Soil
Carefully cover the seed potatoes with soil.
Avoid damaging the shoots.
Step 6: Water When Necessary
If the soil is already moist, additional watering may not be needed immediately.
During prolonged dry conditions, water appropriately to encourage establishment.
Step 7: Watch for Emerging Shoots
Green shoots should eventually appear above the soil.
Emergence time varies depending on temperature, planting depth and seed potato condition.
Protect young growth from late frosts.
How to Grow Charlotte Potatoes in Containers
You don’t need a large allotment to grow Charlotte potatoes.
They can be grown successfully in suitable containers, making them an excellent choice for patios and smaller gardens.
Choosing a Container
Use a container with adequate drainage holes.
A container holding approximately 30–40 litres of compost can accommodate around two seed potatoes, depending on its shape and the growing conditions.
Larger containers provide more room for root and tuber development.
Avoid overcrowding.
Step 1: Add Compost
Place approximately 10–15cm of suitable compost into the bottom of the container.
A good-quality peat-free multipurpose compost can work well, particularly when supported with suitable feeding.
Step 2: Position the Seed Potatoes
Place the seed potatoes on top of the compost.
Allow space between them and the sides of the container.
Step 3: Cover with Compost
Add another 10–15cm of compost over the potatoes.
Water lightly if the compost is dry.
Step 4: Add More Compost as Plants Grow
As shoots develop, gradually add more compost around the stems.
Leave enough foliage exposed for photosynthesis.
Continue until the container is nearly full.
Step 5: Maintain Moisture
Container-grown potatoes can dry out much faster than potatoes growing in the ground.
Check the compost regularly.
Water thoroughly when needed, allowing excess water to drain away.
Step 6: Feed Appropriately
Potatoes growing in containers have limited access to nutrients.
A suitable potato fertiliser or balanced feeding programme can help support healthy growth.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid excessive feeding.
Step 7: Harvest Your Potatoes
When the crop is ready, carefully empty the container onto a suitable surface.
Search through the compost to collect the potatoes.
This is one of the most enjoyable parts of growing potatoes in containers.
How Deep Should You Plant Charlotte Potatoes?
Charlotte seed potatoes are generally planted approximately 10–15cm deep in garden soil.
In containers, they are often placed on an initial layer of compost and covered with another 10–15cm.
As the plants grow, additional soil or compost can be added around the stems.
This helps protect developing tubers from light.
Potatoes exposed to light may turn green and accumulate glycoalkaloids, including solanine.
Green potatoes should not be eaten.
How Far Apart Should Charlotte Potatoes Be Planted?
For second early Charlotte potatoes, a useful planting guide is:
- 30–35cm between seed potatoes
- 60–75cm between rows
- Approximately 10–15cm planting depth
Spacing can be adjusted slightly depending on soil conditions and the size of potatoes you want to produce.
Crowded plants may compete for moisture, nutrients and growing space.
How to Earth Up Charlotte Potatoes
Earthing up involves drawing soil around the developing potato stems.
This helps prevent developing tubers from becoming exposed to sunlight.
It can also provide some protection against light frosts.
When to Earth Up
Begin earthing up when the plants have grown approximately 15–20cm tall.
Draw soil around the stems, leaving the upper leaves exposed.
Repeat as necessary while the plants are developing.
Be careful not to damage stems or roots.
In containers, adding compost around the stems serves a similar purpose.
How Often Should You Water Charlotte Potatoes?
Charlotte potatoes need consistent moisture, particularly during tuber formation and development.
The amount of water required depends on rainfall, soil type, temperature and whether the potatoes are growing in containers.
Watering Potatoes in the Ground
Established plants may not require additional watering during periods of regular rainfall.
However, prolonged dry conditions can reduce yields and affect tuber quality.
Check the moisture below the soil surface rather than judging only by how dry the top looks.
Water thoroughly when needed.
Watering Container Potatoes
Containers dry out more quickly, especially during warm or windy weather.
Check them frequently during the growing season.
In hot conditions, some containers may require daily watering.
However, avoid keeping the compost permanently saturated.
Good drainage is essential.
Why Consistent Watering Matters
Large fluctuations in soil moisture can contribute to problems such as growth cracks and misshapen tubers.
Maintaining reasonably even moisture during tuber development can improve crop quality.
Best Fertiliser for Charlotte Potatoes
Potatoes require nutrients to support healthy foliage, roots and tuber development.
Potassium is particularly important for tuber growth and quality.
However, feeding should be balanced.
Too much nitrogen can encourage excessive leafy growth rather than productive tuber development.
Before Planting
Improve soil fertility with suitable well-rotted organic matter where needed.
If your soil is already fertile, additional feeding may be unnecessary.
During Growth
Where feeding is required, use a fertiliser suitable for potatoes.
Follow the recommended application rate.
Container-grown potatoes may benefit from additional feeding because nutrients can be depleted or washed out of the compost.
Avoid assuming that more fertiliser will automatically produce a larger harvest.
When Are Charlotte Potatoes Ready to Harvest?
Charlotte potatoes generally take approximately 13–17 weeks from planting to reach a useful harvesting size.
For potatoes planted in March or April, harvesting often takes place during June, July or August.
However, weather conditions can affect maturity.
Signs Charlotte Potatoes Are Ready
Look for:
- Healthy plants that have reached a mature size
- Tubers large enough for your intended use
- Plants approaching their expected harvesting period
- Foliage beginning to yellow naturally later in the season
Flowering can sometimes coincide with tuber development, but it is not a reliable indication that potatoes are ready.
Some potato plants produce few flowers or none at all.
The best method is to check a plant carefully.
How to Harvest Charlotte Potatoes
Harvesting homegrown potatoes is one of the most rewarding gardening jobs.
Step 1: Choose a Suitable Day
If possible, harvest when the soil is reasonably dry and workable.
Wet soil can make lifting and cleaning potatoes more difficult.
Step 2: Use a Garden Fork
Insert a garden fork into the soil some distance from the plant.
Gently lift the soil to expose the tubers.
Avoid placing the fork too close to the stems because you may accidentally pierce the potatoes.
Step 3: Collect the Potatoes
Carefully gather the tubers by hand.
Check the surrounding soil for smaller potatoes.
Step 4: Inspect the Harvest
Separate damaged, rotten or diseased potatoes from healthy ones.
Use accidentally damaged but otherwise sound potatoes promptly, after trimming damage as appropriate.
Discard potatoes showing significant rot or suspicious disease symptoms.
Step 5: Keep Potatoes Out of Sunlight
Move harvested potatoes into a shaded location.
Prolonged exposure to light can cause greening.
How Many Charlotte Potatoes Will One Plant Produce?
The number of potatoes produced by each plant varies considerably.
Yield depends on:
- Seed potato quality
- Soil fertility
- Plant spacing
- Water availability
- Growing temperatures
- Pest and disease pressure
- Harvesting time
- Container size
Under favourable conditions, a plant may produce several hundred grams to more than a kilogram of potatoes.
However, this is not guaranteed.
Container-grown plants may produce smaller yields if space, nutrients or water are limited.
The best way to improve productivity is to provide good growing conditions rather than overcrowding the planting area.
Common Problems When Growing Charlotte Potatoes
Like all potatoes, Charlotte can be affected by pests, diseases and unsuitable growing conditions.
Potato Blight
Potato blight is a serious fungal-like disease caused by the organism Phytophthora infestans.
It can spread rapidly during warm, humid conditions.
Symptoms may include dark lesions on leaves and stems, sometimes accompanied by pale fungal-like growth in humid weather.
Infected tubers may develop brown internal decay.
Remove affected foliage promptly and follow current local advice on managing infected crops.
Do not store potatoes showing signs of blight.
Potato Scab
Common scab causes rough, corky patches on potato skins.
It is often more troublesome in dry, alkaline conditions.
Maintaining suitable soil moisture during early tuber development can help reduce the risk.
Scab usually affects appearance more than eating quality, although severely affected potatoes may need substantial peeling.
Slugs
Slugs can damage developing tubers, especially in damp conditions.
Maintaining good garden hygiene and harvesting mature crops promptly can help reduce problems.
Green Potatoes
Tubers exposed to sunlight may develop green patches.
The green colour indicates chlorophyll formation and can be associated with increased glycoalkaloid levels.
Do not eat green or bitter-tasting potatoes.
Poor Yields
Low yields may result from drought, overcrowding, poor fertility, disease or harvesting too early.
Review growing conditions before making changes for the following season.
Can You Grow Charlotte Potatoes in Autumn?
Charlotte potatoes are normally grown as a spring-planted, summer-harvested crop in the UK.
However, potatoes can sometimes be grown for late-autumn or Christmas harvests under suitable protected conditions.
This requires careful timing, suitable planting stock and frost protection.
Charlotte is not always readily available as a specially prepared late-season seed potato.
For reliable autumn growing, choose seed potatoes specifically supplied for late planting.
Avoid assuming that ordinary supermarket potatoes will perform well or be disease-free.
How to Store Charlotte Potatoes
Charlotte potatoes are often enjoyed fresh because of their excellent salad-potato qualities.
As a second early variety, they are generally less suited to very long storage than some maincrop potatoes.
Storing Freshly Harvested Potatoes
Keep potatoes somewhere cool, dark and well ventilated.
Avoid direct sunlight.
Do not store them in sealed plastic bags where condensation can accumulate.
Should You Wash Potatoes Before Storage?
For potatoes intended for storage, brush away loose soil rather than washing them.
Excess moisture can encourage decay.
Wash potatoes shortly before cooking.
How Long Will Charlotte Potatoes Keep?
Storage life varies depending on harvest maturity, growing conditions and storage temperature.
Tender new potatoes with delicate skins should be used relatively quickly.
More mature potatoes with set skins may keep longer under suitable conditions.
Inspect stored potatoes regularly and remove any showing signs of deterioration.
Never eat green, rotten or severely sprouted potatoes.
What Do Charlotte Potatoes Taste Like?
Charlotte potatoes have a mild, slightly nutty flavour and a pleasant buttery character.
Their creamy yellow flesh remains relatively firm when cooked.
This makes them particularly enjoyable when served simply with butter, herbs or a light dressing.
Unlike floury varieties such as King Edward or Maris Piper, Charlotte potatoes do not usually break apart easily during boiling.
Their waxy texture makes them especially useful for potato salads.
Are Charlotte Potatoes Good for Roasting?
Yes, Charlotte potatoes can be roasted.
However, their waxy texture produces a different result from traditional floury roasting potatoes.
Charlotte potatoes tend to hold their shape and develop a golden exterior with a firmer, creamier centre.
They are particularly good for roasting whole or halved with olive oil, garlic and rosemary.
For extremely fluffy roast potatoes with a crisp crust, varieties such as King Edward or Maris Piper are often preferred.
How to Cook Charlotte Potatoes
Charlotte potatoes are extremely versatile in the kitchen.
Here are some of the best ways to prepare them.
Boiled Charlotte Potatoes
Boiling is one of the simplest ways to enjoy their natural flavour.
Ingredients:
- 500g Charlotte potatoes
- Water
- Salt, optional
- Butter, optional
- Fresh mint or parsley, optional
Method:
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly.
- Cut larger potatoes into evenly sized pieces.
- Place them into a saucepan and cover with cold water.
- Add a little salt if desired.
- Bring to the boil.
- Reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for approximately 15–20 minutes, depending on size.
- Test with a knife to check tenderness.
- Drain thoroughly.
- Serve with butter and fresh herbs.
Small new potatoes may cook more quickly, while larger potatoes may need longer.
Roasted Charlotte Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 750g Charlotte potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- Fresh rosemary
- Salt and black pepper
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C fan or 220°C conventional.
- Wash and dry the potatoes.
- Halve larger potatoes.
- Toss with olive oil, rosemary and seasoning.
- Spread onto a baking tray in a single layer.
- Roast for approximately 30–40 minutes.
- Turn halfway through cooking.
- Add finely chopped garlic during the final 10 minutes to reduce burning.
- Serve when golden and tender.
Charlotte Potato Salad
Charlotte potatoes are particularly well suited to potato salads because they hold their shape.
Ingredients:
- 750g Charlotte potatoes
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 spring onions, finely chopped
- Fresh chives
- Salt and black pepper
Method:
- Boil the potatoes until tender.
- Drain and allow them to cool.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the mayonnaise and mustard in a bowl.
- Add the potatoes, spring onions and chives.
- Season to taste.
- Refrigerate promptly until serving.
This makes a delicious accompaniment to summer barbecues, salads and outdoor meals.
Sautéed Charlotte Potatoes
Charlotte potatoes also work beautifully when sautéed.
Boil or steam them until just tender, then drain thoroughly.
Allow them to dry before slicing.
Heat a little oil or butter in a frying pan and cook the potatoes until golden on both sides.
Finish with parsley, garlic or your favourite herbs.
Charlotte Potatoes vs Maris Piper
Charlotte and Maris Piper are both popular UK potato varieties, but they have different qualities.
| Feature | Charlotte | Maris Piper |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Waxy | Floury |
| Flesh | Creamy yellow | Cream to pale yellow |
| Best for | Salads and boiling | Chips, roasting and mash |
| Holds shape | Very well | Less reliably |
| Roast texture | Firm and creamy | Fluffy inside |
| Typical classification | Second early | Maincrop |
Both varieties are worth growing if you have enough space.
Charlotte is excellent for summer meals, while Maris Piper is particularly useful for traditional roast dinners and homemade chips.
Are Charlotte Potatoes Healthy?
Charlotte potatoes provide carbohydrates, dietary fibre and several important nutrients.
They contain vitamin C, vitamin B6 and potassium.
Like other potatoes, their nutritional value depends partly on how they are prepared.
Boiling or steaming with minimal added fat can be a nutritious option.
Roasting with moderate amounts of oil is another enjoyable preparation method.
Leaving the skins on can help retain fibre, provided the potatoes are healthy, thoroughly washed and not green.
Potatoes can form part of a balanced diet alongside vegetables, protein sources and other foods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Charlotte Potatoes
When Do You Plant Charlotte Potatoes?
Charlotte potatoes are generally planted during March or April in the UK, depending on local weather and soil conditions.
How Long Do Charlotte Potatoes Take to Grow?
They usually take approximately 13–17 weeks from planting to harvest.
Are Charlotte Potatoes First Early?
No. Charlotte potatoes are generally classified as second early potatoes.
Can Charlotte Potatoes Be Grown in Bags?
Yes. They grow well in suitable potato bags and large containers with good drainage.
Do Charlotte Potatoes Need Chitting?
Chitting is optional but can be useful for encouraging early growth.
How Deep Do You Plant Charlotte Potatoes?
Plant approximately 10–15cm deep in garden soil.
How Many Charlotte Potatoes Can You Plant in a Container?
Around two seed potatoes in a 30–40 litre container is a reasonable starting point.
Larger containers can accommodate more, depending on their dimensions.
When Should You Harvest Charlotte Potatoes?
Harvesting commonly takes place between June and August, depending on planting time and growing conditions.
Can You Eat Charlotte Potato Skins?
Yes. Healthy, properly washed Charlotte potato skins are edible.
Do not eat green potatoes.
Are Charlotte Potatoes Good for Mash?
They can be mashed, but their waxy texture generally produces a denser result than floury varieties.