How to Plant Potatoes on an Allotment

Planting potatoes on an allotment is one of the most rewarding jobs of the growing season. Potatoes are productive, versatile, and ideal for allotment growing, where space allows for proper spacing, crop rotation, and good yields.

⭐ Recommended Products — Seed Potatoes & Planting Essentials

• 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)
Choose popular individual varieties (e.g., Maris Piper, Charlotte, King Edward) to suit your taste and growing goals — consistent results from true seed stock.
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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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Why Grow Potatoes on an Allotment?

Potatoes are perfect for allotments because they:

• Produce large harvests
• Help clear and improve soil
• Suppress weeds once established
• Are easy to store (maincrop varieties)
• Are suitable for beginners and experienced growers

They also fit well into traditional allotment crop rotation systems.

Step 1: Choose the Right Potato Type

Decide which type of potatoes you want to grow:

• First earlies – quick crops, early harvests
• Second earlies – slightly larger yields, versatile use
• Maincrop – biggest harvests and best for storage

Most allotment growers plant a mix of all three.

Step 2: Choose the Best Allotment Plot

• Pick a sunny, open site
• Avoid areas that become waterlogged
• Do not grow potatoes in the same place as last year

Good crop rotation reduces disease and pest problems.

Step 3: Prepare the Soil

Potatoes grow best in loose, fertile soil.

• Clear weeds and debris
• Dig the plot over in winter or early spring
• Add plenty of well-rotted compost or manure
• Avoid fresh manure, which can cause scab

Break up large clods and remove stones before planting.

Step 4: Chit Seed Potatoes

Chitting is strongly recommended for allotment growing.

• Start chitting 4–6 weeks before planting
• Place seed potatoes in a cool, light, frost-free place
• Aim for short, sturdy shoots

Chitted potatoes establish faster and more reliably.

Step 5: When to Plant Potatoes on an Allotment

Typical UK allotment planting times:

• First earlies: Late February to March
• Second earlies: March to early April
• Maincrop: Early to mid-April

Only plant when soil is workable and not waterlogged.

Step 6: Dig Trenches

Trench planting is ideal on allotments.

• Dig trenches 10–15 cm deep
• Space trenches:
  • First earlies: 60 cm apart
  • Second earlies: 60–65 cm apart
  • Maincrop: 70–75 cm apart

Keep the excavated soil to one side for earthing up.

Step 7: Plant the Seed Potatoes

• Place seed potatoes in the trench
• Shoots (chits) facing upwards
• Spacing between potatoes:
  • First & second earlies: 30 cm apart
  • Maincrop: 35–40 cm apart

Do not overcrowd.

Step 8: Cover and Water Lightly

• Cover seed potatoes with soil
• Lightly firm the surface
• Water only if soil is dry

Avoid overwatering at planting time.

Step 9: Protect Against Frost

As shoots appear:

• Earth up soil over shoots if frost is forecast
• Or cover rows with fleece

Early potatoes are particularly frost-sensitive.

Step 10: Earth Up Regularly

Earthing up is essential on an allotment.

• Draw soil up around stems as plants grow
• Leave top leaves exposed
• Build ridges up to 20–25 cm high

This prevents greening and increases yield.

Step 11: Water and Feed During Growth

• Water during dry spells
• Most important during flowering and tuber formation
• Feed lightly with a balanced fertiliser if growth is weak

Avoid high-nitrogen feeds.

Step 12: Harvesting Potatoes on an Allotment

• First earlies: Harvest when flowering begins
• Second earlies: Harvest just after flowering
• Maincrop: Harvest when foliage has died back

For maincrop:

• Cut back foliage
• Wait 7–14 days before lifting for better storage

Lift carefully using a fork from the side of the ridge.

Common Allotment Potato Problems

• Blight in wet summers
• Scab in dry or alkaline soil
• Wireworm on newly cultivated plots

Good rotation, spacing, and watering reduce problems.

How Many Potatoes to Plant on an Allotment?

As a rough guide:

• 10 plants = 10–20 kg
• 30–40 plants can supply a household for months

Maincrop potatoes are best for bulk growing.

Quick Summary

• Dig trenches 10–15 cm deep
• Space plants 30–40 cm apart
• Earth up regularly
• Water during dry periods
• Harvest based on potato type

Final Tip

Potatoes are one of the most reliable allotment crops. With correct spacing, regular earthing up, and good rotation, allotment-grown potatoes can produce excellent yields year after year.