Charlotte Potatoes: How to Plant, Grow and Harvest in the UK
Charlotte potatoes are one of the most popular salad potato varieties grown in the UK, and it’s easy to understand why.
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With their attractive yellow skins, creamy yellow flesh and delicious waxy texture, Charlotte potatoes are perfect for boiling, steaming, potato salads and enjoying freshly harvested from the garden.
They’re also an excellent choice for gardeners who want to grow potatoes in traditional allotment beds, raised beds, large containers or potato bags.
One of the biggest advantages of Charlotte potatoes is their versatility. Although they’re normally classified as second early potatoes, they can be harvested young as delicious new potatoes or allowed to develop into larger tubers.
Here at Gardening with Ben, I’ve grown potatoes in various ways over the years, including growing them in buckets. There’s something particularly satisfying about tipping out a container and discovering just how many potatoes have developed beneath the compost.
Whether you’re growing Charlotte potatoes for the first time or looking to improve your harvest, this complete guide will explain everything you need to know.
We’ll cover when to plant Charlotte potatoes in the UK, how to chit seed potatoes, the best soil conditions, planting distances, watering, feeding, earthing up, harvesting and common problems.
What Are Charlotte Potatoes?
Charlotte is a popular second early potato variety widely grown in British gardens and allotments.
It is particularly valued for its flavour and firm, waxy flesh.
Unlike floury potatoes such as Maris Piper, Charlotte potatoes tend to hold their shape well during cooking.
This makes them particularly suitable for salads and boiling.
Charlotte Potato Growing Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Variety | Charlotte |
| Botanical name | Solanum tuberosum |
| Potato type | Second early |
| Skin colour | Yellow |
| Flesh colour | Creamy yellow |
| Texture | Firm and waxy |
| Planting time | March–April, depending on conditions |
| Harvesting time | Usually June–August |
| Growing period | Approximately 13–16 weeks |
| Position | Full sun |
| Soil | Fertile, well-drained soil |
| Best uses | Boiling, steaming, salads and roasting |
| Container growing | Suitable |
Growing times are approximate and depend on the planting date, weather and growing conditions.
Are Charlotte Potatoes First Early or Second Early?
Charlotte potatoes are generally classified as second early potatoes.
This means they normally take longer to mature than first early varieties such as Swift or Rocket.
However, Charlotte potatoes can still be harvested while young and enjoyed as new potatoes.
First Early Potatoes
First early potatoes are usually harvested approximately 10–12 weeks after planting.
Second Early Potatoes
Second early potatoes, including Charlotte, are generally harvested approximately 13–16 weeks after planting.
Maincrop Potatoes
Maincrop potatoes are grown for a longer period and are often harvested during late summer or autumn.
Charlotte potatoes are particularly useful for gardeners wanting a summer harvest of firm, flavoursome potatoes.
Why Grow Charlotte Potatoes?
There are several reasons why Charlotte is such a popular variety.
Excellent Flavour
Charlotte potatoes have a pleasant, distinctive flavour.
They’re particularly enjoyable when freshly harvested.
Waxy Texture
Their firm flesh holds together well when boiled or steamed.
Perfect for Potato Salads
Charlotte is one of the best-known varieties for potato salads.
Suitable for Containers
Charlotte potatoes can be grown successfully in large pots, buckets and potato bags.
Useful Summer Harvest
As a second early variety, Charlotte can provide a harvest during the summer months.
Versatile Cooking
Although best known as a salad potato, Charlotte can also be roasted.
When to Plant Charlotte Potatoes in the UK
Charlotte seed potatoes are generally planted during March and April.
However, planting dates depend on soil temperature, weather and your growing location.
Planting in March
March planting can be suitable in milder areas when soil conditions are favourable.
However, young potato shoots are vulnerable to frost.
Planting in April
April is a reliable planting month for many UK gardeners.
The soil is generally beginning to warm, and conditions may be more suitable for growth.
Planting in Northern England
In colder or more exposed locations, planting during April may be preferable to very early March planting.
Can You Plant Charlotte Potatoes in May?
Yes.
Charlotte potatoes can be planted in May, although harvesting will usually take place later.
Make sure the plants have enough growing time to develop before conditions deteriorate.
Charlotte Potato Growing Calendar
| Month | What to do |
|---|---|
| January | Order certified Charlotte seed potatoes |
| February | Begin chitting if desired |
| March | Plant in suitable soil or protected containers |
| April | Continue planting and protect shoots from frost |
| May | Earth up plants and monitor watering |
| June | Check early tuber development and begin harvesting suitable crops |
| July | Main harvesting period for many plantings |
| August | Harvest later-planted crops |
| September | Clear beds and prepare for future crops |
The exact harvesting period depends on planting time and conditions.
Should You Chit Charlotte Potatoes?
Chitting means encouraging seed potatoes to develop short shoots before planting.
It is commonly used for first early and second early potatoes.
Although chitting isn’t essential, it can help give seed potatoes an early start.
How to Chit Charlotte Potatoes
- Choose healthy certified Charlotte seed potatoes.
- Place them in an egg box or shallow tray.
- Position them in a cool, bright, frost-free location.
- Allow short, sturdy shoots to develop.
- Avoid placing them in a dark, warm cupboard.
- Plant once the soil is suitable.
How Long Does Chitting Take?
Chitting often takes approximately four to six weeks.
However, this varies with temperature and the condition of the seed potatoes.
What Should Charlotte Potato Shoots Look Like?
Ideally, shoots should be short, sturdy and reasonably compact.
Long, pale shoots are more easily damaged.
Best Soil for Growing Charlotte Potatoes
Charlotte potatoes grow best in fertile, well-drained soil.
They benefit from a soil structure that allows tubers to develop without excessive compaction.
Soil Preparation
Remove weeds and loosen the soil where necessary.
Incorporate suitable well-rotted compost if the soil needs improving.
Heavy Clay Soil
Heavy clay can become compacted and waterlogged.
Adding organic matter over time can improve structure.
Raised beds may be useful where drainage is poor.
Sandy Soil
Sandy soil generally drains well but may dry out quickly.
Organic matter can help improve moisture retention.
Soil pH
Potatoes generally prefer slightly acidic conditions.
Common scab can be more troublesome in alkaline soils.
Avoid applying lime immediately before growing potatoes unless there is a specific, well-supported reason.
How to Plant Charlotte Potatoes in the Ground
Planting Charlotte potatoes is straightforward.
Step 1: Choose a Sunny Position
Select a location that receives plenty of sunlight.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil
Remove weeds and loosen the planting area.
Step 3: Dig Planting Trenches
Prepare trenches or individual planting holes approximately 10–15cm deep.
Step 4: Position the Seed Potatoes
Place the seed potatoes into the soil.
If they’ve been chitted, handle them carefully to avoid breaking the shoots.
Step 5: Space the Potatoes
Allow approximately 30–40cm between seed potatoes.
Step 6: Space the Rows
Leave approximately 60–75cm between rows.
Step 7: Cover with Soil
Cover the potatoes and gently level the soil.
Step 8: Water if Necessary
If the soil is already moist, immediate watering may not be needed.
Avoid waterlogging.
How Deep Should You Plant Charlotte Potatoes?
A planting depth of approximately 10–15cm is suitable for many garden soils.
Planting depth may vary depending on soil conditions and growing method.
In containers, potatoes can initially be planted in a lower layer of compost, with more compost added as the plants grow.
The main aim is to provide enough growing medium for tuber development while preventing potatoes from becoming exposed to light.
How Far Apart Should Charlotte Potatoes Be Planted?
Charlotte potatoes can generally be planted approximately 30–40cm apart.
Allow approximately 60–75cm between rows.
This provides room for plant development and makes earthing up easier.
Crowding plants can reduce airflow and increase competition for water and nutrients.
Growing Charlotte Potatoes in Buckets
Growing Charlotte potatoes in buckets is an excellent option for gardeners with limited space.
It’s also a useful method if you want to keep the harvest separate from potatoes growing in traditional beds.
Choosing a Bucket
Use a large bucket or container with adequate drainage.
A capacity of approximately 30–40 litres or more is useful for a small planting.
Larger containers can accommodate more growing medium and may be easier to keep consistently moist.
How Many Charlotte Potatoes per Bucket?
The number depends on container size.
For a container of approximately 30–40 litres, one or two seed potatoes is a reasonable starting point.
Avoid overcrowding.
Step-by-Step Bucket Planting
- Make sure the bucket has adequate drainage holes.
- Add approximately 10–15cm of suitable compost.
- Position the seed potatoes.
- Cover with another layer of compost.
- Water carefully.
- Place the bucket in a sunny position.
- Add more compost as the shoots grow.
- Maintain consistent moisture.
- Harvest when the potatoes have reached a suitable size.
Why Grow Charlotte Potatoes in Buckets?
Bucket growing offers several advantages:
- Easier harvesting
- Less digging
- Convenient watering and feeding
- Suitable for patios
- Useful for smaller gardens
However, containers can dry out quickly and require regular attention.
Growing Charlotte Potatoes in Potato Bags
Potato bags are another popular growing method.
Choosing a Bag
Use a strong growing bag with suitable drainage.
Planting
Add compost to the bottom, position the seed potatoes and cover them.
Earthing Up
Add compost around developing stems as plants grow.
Watering
Check moisture regularly.
Harvesting
Empty the bag carefully when the potatoes are ready.
Potato bags are particularly useful for gardeners who want a manageable crop without digging a traditional bed.
How to Earth Up Charlotte Potatoes
Earthing up involves drawing soil around developing potato stems.
This helps protect developing tubers from exposure to sunlight.
Why Is Earthing Up Important?
Potatoes exposed to light can develop green areas.
Greening indicates light exposure and may be associated with increased glycoalkaloids.
When Should You Earth Up?
Begin when shoots are approximately 15–20cm tall.
Draw soil around the stems while leaving some foliage exposed.
Repeat as necessary during growth.
Earthing Up Container Potatoes
Add compost gradually as the plants develop.
Avoid completely burying large amounts of healthy foliage unnecessarily.
How Often Should You Water Charlotte Potatoes?
Charlotte potatoes need adequate moisture throughout their growing season.
Consistent watering is particularly important when tubers are forming and increasing in size.
Watering After Planting
If the soil is already moist, additional watering may not be required immediately.
Watering Young Plants
Keep the root zone appropriately moist.
Watering During Tuber Development
Avoid prolonged drought stress.
Watering During Hot Weather
Container-grown potatoes may require frequent watering.
Avoid Overwatering
Waterlogged compost can encourage root problems and rotting.
Best Watering Advice
Check the soil or compost regularly.
Water thoroughly when necessary rather than applying small amounts without checking moisture levels.
Best Fertiliser for Charlotte Potatoes
Potatoes benefit from suitable nutrient levels.
However, excessive fertiliser can cause problems.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen supports leafy growth.
Too much nitrogen can encourage excessive foliage and may delay tuber development.
Potassium
Potassium is particularly important for potato growth and tuber development.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus supports root development and other plant processes.
What Fertiliser Should You Use?
A fertiliser formulated for potatoes can be suitable.
Alternatively, use an appropriate balanced feeding programme based on soil fertility.
Feeding Potatoes in Containers
Container potatoes may need additional nutrients because the compost contains a limited nutrient supply.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Avoid excessive feeding.
Do Charlotte Potatoes Flower?
Yes, Charlotte potato plants may produce flowers.
However, flowering can vary depending on growing conditions.
Does Flowering Mean They’re Ready to Harvest?
Not necessarily.
Flowering may coincide with tuber development, but it isn’t a reliable sign that the potatoes have reached their desired size.
Can You Harvest Before Flowering?
Yes.
If the tubers have developed sufficiently, they can be harvested even if the plant hasn’t flowered.
Should You Remove Potato Flowers?
Removing flowers is generally unnecessary.
Focus on maintaining healthy growing conditions.
When to Harvest Charlotte Potatoes in the UK
Charlotte potatoes are usually harvested approximately 13–16 weeks after planting.
For spring plantings, this commonly means harvesting between June and August.
However, timing depends on the variety’s development and growing conditions.
Signs Charlotte Potatoes Are Ready
Look for:
- Plants that have grown strongly for several weeks
- Tubers reaching a suitable size
- A reasonable period since planting
- Foliage beginning to mature, although this isn’t essential
Do You Have to Wait for the Leaves to Turn Yellow?
No.
Charlotte potatoes are often harvested while the foliage is still green.
This is particularly common when harvesting them as new potatoes.
How to Check Whether Charlotte Potatoes Are Ready
Carefully move some soil away from the base of a plant.
Feel for a developing potato.
If the tubers are large enough for your intended use, you can begin harvesting.
If they’re still small, replace the soil and allow them more time.
How to Harvest Charlotte Potatoes
Harvesting carefully helps prevent damage.
Step 1: Choose Suitable Weather
A reasonably dry day can make harvesting easier.
Step 2: Use a Garden Fork
Insert the fork away from the main stems.
Step 3: Lift the Soil
Gently loosen the soil.
Step 4: Collect the Potatoes
Remove the tubers by hand.
Step 5: Check for Remaining Potatoes
Search the surrounding soil carefully.
Step 6: Inspect the Harvest
Separate damaged or diseased tubers.
Step 7: Keep Potatoes Out of Direct Sunlight
Move the harvest into shade promptly.
Can You Harvest Charlotte Potatoes a Few at a Time?
Yes.
If you’re growing Charlotte potatoes for fresh use, you can carefully remove a few developed tubers while leaving the plant growing.
This is sometimes called furtling.
How to Furtle Potatoes
- Choose a healthy plant.
- Carefully move soil away from one side.
- Feel for suitable tubers.
- Remove the potatoes gently.
- Replace the soil around the remaining roots and tubers.
Avoid excessive disturbance.
This method is particularly useful if you only need enough potatoes for one meal.
How Many Charlotte Potatoes Will One Plant Produce?
Yield varies considerably.
Factors include:
- Seed potato quality
- Soil fertility
- Water availability
- Plant spacing
- Container size
- Growing conditions
- Pest and disease pressure
- Harvesting time
A healthy plant may produce several useful tubers, but the exact number and total weight cannot be guaranteed.
For the best results, provide adequate growing space and consistent moisture.
Can You Store Charlotte Potatoes?
Yes, Charlotte potatoes can be stored, particularly when harvested fully mature.
However, they’re often enjoyed freshly harvested because of their excellent salad-potato qualities.
Storing New Potatoes
Young potatoes have delicate skins.
They’re generally best eaten relatively soon after harvesting.
Storing Mature Charlotte Potatoes
If the crop is fully mature and the skins have set, sound potatoes may be stored for longer.
Best Storage Conditions
Keep potatoes:
- Cool
- Dark
- Frost-free
- Well ventilated
- Away from excessive moisture
Inspect them regularly.
Should You Wash Charlotte Potatoes Before Storage?
Generally no.
For storage, allow surface moisture to dry and brush away loose soil.
Wash them before cooking instead.
Common Problems When Growing Charlotte Potatoes
Potato Late Blight
Late blight is caused by Phytophthora infestans.
It can affect foliage and tubers.
Symptoms may include dark leaf lesions, collapsing foliage and tuber decay.
To reduce risk:
- Use healthy certified seed potatoes.
- Monitor plants regularly.
- Maintain suitable airflow.
- Remove affected material appropriately.
- Avoid storing diseased tubers.
Potato Scab
Common scab causes rough, corky patches on potato skins.
It can be more troublesome in dry, alkaline soil.
Maintaining suitable moisture during early tuber development may help reduce the problem.
Slug Damage
Slugs can damage developing potatoes.
Problems may be greater during wet conditions.
Green Potatoes
Potatoes exposed to light can develop green areas.
Avoid eating green or bitter potatoes.
Wireworm Damage
Wireworm larvae can tunnel into potato tubers.
They can be particularly troublesome in ground recently converted from grass.
Poor Growth
Poor growth may result from:
- Cold soil
- Waterlogging
- Insufficient moisture
- Nutrient problems
- Poor-quality seed potatoes
- Pest or disease damage
Are Charlotte Potatoes Resistant to Blight?
Charlotte potatoes are not considered one of the strongest late-blight-resistant varieties.
They can be affected by late blight under suitable disease conditions.
However, because Charlotte is a second early variety, some crops may be harvested before late-season blight becomes particularly severe.
This is not guaranteed.
Disease pressure varies considerably between seasons.
Can You Grow Charlotte Potatoes Every Year?
Yes, you can grow Charlotte potatoes each year.
However, it’s sensible to rotate where potatoes are grown when practical.
Why Rotate Potatoes?
Rotation can help reduce the buildup of certain soil-borne pests and diseases.
What Crops Should You Avoid Following Potatoes With?
Potatoes belong to the same plant family as tomatoes, peppers and aubergines.
Avoid repeatedly growing susceptible crops in the same soil where disease problems are present.
Can You Reuse Potato Compost?
Reusing compost requires care.
Compost from diseased plants should not be reused for susceptible crops without appropriate treatment.
Even healthy used compost may have depleted nutrients.
Best Ways to Cook Charlotte Potatoes
Charlotte potatoes are particularly popular because of their firm, waxy texture.
Boiled Charlotte Potatoes
Boiling is one of the simplest cooking methods.
Charlotte potatoes hold their shape well.
Steamed Charlotte Potatoes
Steaming helps preserve their firm texture.
Charlotte Potato Salad
Charlotte is excellent for potato salads.
Allow cooked potatoes to cool appropriately before combining them with other ingredients.
Roasted Charlotte Potatoes
Charlotte potatoes can also be roasted.
Their waxy texture produces a different result from floury roasting varieties.
Charlotte Potatoes with Butter and Herbs
Freshly harvested Charlotte potatoes are delicious served with butter and chopped herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Charlotte Potatoes
Are Charlotte Potatoes First Early or Second Early?
Charlotte potatoes are generally classified as second early potatoes.
When Should You Plant Charlotte Potatoes in the UK?
March and April are common planting months, depending on conditions.
Do You Need to Chit Charlotte Potatoes?
Chitting is optional but can help encourage early shoot development.
How Deep Should You Plant Charlotte Potatoes?
Approximately 10–15cm deep is a useful guideline.
How Far Apart Should You Plant Charlotte Potatoes?
Approximately 30–40cm apart, with 60–75cm between rows.
Can You Grow Charlotte Potatoes in Buckets?
Yes. Charlotte potatoes are well suited to large containers with adequate drainage.
How Many Charlotte Seed Potatoes Can You Put in a Bucket?
One or two seed potatoes in a 30–40-litre container is a reasonable starting point.
How Long Do Charlotte Potatoes Take to Grow?
Approximately 13–16 weeks under suitable conditions.
When Are Charlotte Potatoes Ready to Harvest?
Usually between June and August for spring plantings.
Do Charlotte Potatoes Have to Flower Before Harvesting?
No. Flowering isn’t essential.
Can You Harvest Charlotte Potatoes While the Leaves Are Green?
Yes. This is common when harvesting them as new potatoes.
Are Charlotte Potatoes Good for Roasting?
Yes, although their waxy texture differs from floury roasting varieties.
Are Charlotte Potatoes Good for Potato Salad?
Yes. Their firm texture makes them an excellent choice.
Can You Store Charlotte Potatoes?
Yes, particularly when fully mature and stored under suitable conditions.
Are Charlotte Potatoes Suitable for Beginners?
Yes. They’re a good choice for gardeners who want to grow salad potatoes in beds or containers.
Final Thoughts: Growing Charlotte Potatoes in the UK
Charlotte potatoes are an excellent choice for British gardeners and allotment holders.
Their delicious flavour, firm waxy texture and versatility make them one of the most useful salad potato varieties to grow.
Whether you’re planting them in a traditional vegetable bed, raised bed, bucket or potato bag, the key to success is providing suitable soil, adequate growing space and consistent moisture.
Plant during spring when conditions are favourable, earth up the developing plants and monitor for common potato problems.
When the tubers have reached a suitable size, harvest carefully and enjoy them freshly cooked.
For me, one of the greatest pleasures of growing potatoes is never knowing exactly how many you’ll discover when you lift the plant.
Charlotte potatoes are a fantastic crop to add to your growing plans, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced gardener.
Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!