How Far Apart to Plant Potatoes

Correct spacing is just as important as planting depth when growing potatoes. Planting potatoes too close together reduces yields and increases disease risk, while spacing them correctly gives each plant room to develop healthy foliage and good-sized tubers.

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• Seed Potato Collection (Early, First & Second Earlies)
A mixed pack of quality seed potatoes to plant for a steady harvest from early summer through to autumn. Ideal if you want variety in size and maturity times.
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• Certified Seed Potatoes (Single Variety Packs)
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• Potato Grow Bags / Containers
Reusable, breathable bags designed specifically for growing potatoes — great for patios, small gardens, or increasing yield in limited space.
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• Potato Fertiliser / Soil Booster
Specially formulated feed to support healthy tuber development and improve yields — apply at planting or as a top-dress during the season.
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• Potato Planting Guides & Markers
Helpful tools and guides that take you through planting depth, spacing, and care — plus reusable markers to keep track of different varieties.
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Standard Potato Spacing in the UK

Potato spacing depends on the type of potato you are growing.

Spacing for First Early Potatoes

First earlies are harvested young and do not need as much space.

• Between plants: 30 cm (12 inches)
• Between rows: 60 cm (24 inches)

This spacing encourages quick growth and makes earthing up easy.

Spacing for Second Early Potatoes

Second earlies need slightly more space than first earlies.

• Between plants: 30 cm (12 inches)
• Between rows: 60–65 cm (24–26 inches)

This allows tubers to develop fully while keeping plants manageable.

Spacing for Maincrop Potatoes

Maincrop potatoes grow larger and need more room.

• Between plants: 35–40 cm (14–16 inches)
• Between rows: 70–75 cm (28–30 inches)

Wider spacing improves airflow and reduces disease risk.

Spacing for Potatoes in Raised Beds

In raised beds:

• Space plants 30–35 cm apart
• Leave enough room for earthing up
• Stagger planting in a grid pattern if space is limited

Raised beds often allow slightly closer spacing due to improved soil quality.

Spacing for Potatoes in Containers and Grow Bags

For containers:

• One seed potato per 10–15 litres of compost
• Large containers can hold 2–3 potatoes if space allows
• Avoid overcrowding, as yields will suffer

Good drainage and airflow are essential in containers.

Why Correct Spacing Matters

Proper spacing:

• Increases tuber size and yield
• Improves airflow and reduces blight risk
• Makes earthing up and harvesting easier
• Reduces competition for nutrients and water

Crowded plants produce smaller potatoes.

Can You Plant Potatoes Too Close Together?

Yes. Planting too close can cause:

• Small or misshapen tubers
• Increased disease spread
• Poor airflow
• Lower overall yields

It is better to plant fewer potatoes with correct spacing than overcrowd them.

Can You Plant Potatoes Too Far Apart?

Planting too far apart:

• Wastes valuable growing space
• Does not significantly increase yield per plant

Stick to recommended spacing for best results.

Spacing in Heavy or Poor Soil

In heavier or less fertile soil:

• Use the wider end of spacing ranges
• Improve soil with compost before planting

Better spacing helps roots and tubers develop properly.

Quick Potato Spacing Chart

• First earlies: 30 cm apart, 60 cm rows
• Second earlies: 30 cm apart, 60–65 cm rows
• Maincrop: 35–40 cm apart, 70–75 cm rows

Best Practice Tips

• Measure spacing before planting
• Keep rows straight to make earthing up easier
• Combine correct spacing with proper depth (10–15 cm)
• Rotate crops yearly to reduce disease

Final Thought

Spacing potatoes correctly gives each plant the space it needs to thrive. Combined with proper depth, earthing up, and watering, correct spacing leads to healthier plants and bigger, better harvests.