Potato Chitting: The Ultimate Guide for a Stronger, Faster Harvest
Introduction
If you’re a gardener looking to boost your potato harvest, speed up germination, and increase yields, then potato chitting is a game-changer. Chitting is the simple yet effective process of pre-sprouting seed potatoes before planting, helping them get a head start in the soil.
In this complete guide to potato chitting, we’ll cover:
✅ What chitting is and why it’s important
✅ When to start chitting potatoes
✅ Step-by-step chitting instructions
✅ Common mistakes to avoid
✅ Expert tips for the best results
Whether you’re growing early potatoes, maincrop varieties, or container potatoes, this guide will ensure you’re set up for a bountiful harvest.
What is Potato Chitting?
Potato chitting is the process of encouraging seed potatoes to sprout before planting. By placing potatoes in a cool, bright location, they develop short, strong shoots that speed up growth and improve yields.
Chitting is particularly beneficial for first and second early potatoes, which have a shorter growing season and benefit from an early start.
Why Should You Chit Potatoes? (Top Benefits)
1. Faster Growth and Quicker Establishment
Pre-sprouted potatoes grow faster once planted, reducing the time needed to establish strong roots.
2. Bigger Yields and More Potatoes
Chitted potatoes produce more tubers, leading to larger harvests.
3. Less Risk of Rotting in Cold, Wet Soil
Since chitted potatoes sprout quickly in the soil, they are less likely to rot before growing.
4. Earlier Harvests for Early Potato Varieties
First earlies and second earlies mature faster, meaning you can enjoy homegrown potatoes sooner.
5. Healthier, More Resilient Plants
Strongly sprouted potatoes resist pests and diseases better, reducing issues like slug damage and potato blight.
When to Start Chitting Potatoes
The ideal time to start chitting depends on the variety of potatoes you are growing.
| Potato Type | When to Start Chitting | Planting Time |
|---|---|---|
| First Earlies | Late January – Early February | March – April |
| Second Earlies | Mid – Late February | April – May |
| Maincrop Potatoes | Late February – Early March | April – May |
🌱 Tip: If you live in a colder region, delay planting by a couple of weeks to avoid frost damage.
How to Chit Potatoes (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Choose Certified Seed Potatoes
- Always buy certified, disease-free seed potatoes to prevent issues like potato blight.
- Avoid supermarket potatoes, as they are often treated with sprout inhibitors.
2. Identify the “Rose End” of the Potato
- The rose end is the side with the most eye buds (where sprouts will form).
- Place this facing upwards when chitting.
3. Arrange in an Egg Carton or Seed Tray
- Use egg cartons, seed trays, or shallow boxes to keep potatoes upright and separate.
- Ensure they have good air circulation.
4. Choose the Right Chitting Location
For successful chitting, potatoes need:
- Bright, indirect light – Place on a windowsill, conservatory, or unheated greenhouse.
- Cool temperatures – Ideal range: 10-15°C (50-59°F).
- Ventilation – Avoid damp conditions to prevent rot or mold.
5. Monitor Growth Progress
- After 2-4 weeks, short green or purple sprouts should appear.
- Ideal sprout length is 1-2 cm (½-1 inch).
6. Remove Weak Sprouts
- If too many sprouts form, keep the strongest 3-4 shoots and rub off the rest.
7. Plant Chitted Potatoes at the Right Time
- Once soil temperatures reach 7°C (45°F), you can plant your chitted potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Chitting Potatoes
1. Chitting in the Dark
This produces long, weak, white shoots that break easily.
2. Keeping Potatoes Too Warm
High temperatures cause rapid, weak sprouting, making potatoes more fragile.
3. Chitting Too Early
Starting too soon results in overgrown sprouts before planting time.
4. Letting Sprouts Grow Too Long
Sprouts over 2 cm (1 inch) become easily damaged.
5. Storing in a Damp Area
Excess moisture increases the risk of rot and mold.
Conclusion
Potato chitting is a simple but essential gardening technique that ensures faster growth, stronger plants, and a bigger harvest. By starting at the right time, providing ideal conditions, and avoiding common mistakes, you can enjoy a successful potato crop.
Whether you’re growing first earlies, second earlies, or maincrop potatoes, chitting is a great way to get ahead and ensure a healthy, productive garden.
Top 10 Questions and Answers About Potato Chitting
1. Do I need to chit all potatoes?
Chitting is most beneficial for first and second earlies, but maincrop potatoes can also benefit.
2. Can I plant potatoes without chitting?
Yes, but they will take longer to sprout, delaying growth and harvest time.
3. How long should I chit my potatoes?
Typically 4-6 weeks before planting, depending on variety.
4. Can I chit potatoes in a dark cupboard?
No! Darkness causes weak, white shoots that won’t grow well.
5. What if my potatoes sprout too much before planting?
If sprouts exceed 2 cm (1 inch), gently remove the longest ones, leaving 3-4 strong shoots.
6. Can I chit potatoes in a greenhouse?
Yes, but ensure it’s frost-free and doesn’t get too hot on sunny days.
7. Should I water chitted potatoes?
No! Moisture increases the risk of rot. Keep them dry.
8. Can I chit cut seed potatoes?
No, always chit whole potatoes. If cutting, do so just before planting.
9. What if my chitted potatoes don’t sprout?
They may be stored in too cold or dark conditions. Move them to a brighter, slightly warmer location.
10. Can I plant supermarket potatoes?
It’s not recommended—store-bought potatoes may carry diseases and are often treated with sprout inhibitors.