Valor Potatoes: Maincrop Storage Variety Explained

Valor potatoes are a dependable maincrop potato variety well known for their strong growth, good yields, and excellent storage qualities. They are a traditional favourite among UK gardeners who want a reliable crop that lasts well into winter.

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What Are Valor Potatoes?

Valor is a maincrop potato variety with white skin and creamy white flesh. The tubers are medium to large, fairly uniform, and have a floury texture when cooked. Valor potatoes are especially valued for their robustness, making them a good choice for less-than-perfect growing conditions.

They are grown primarily for storage rather than early harvesting.

Why Valor Is a Good Storage Potato

Valor potatoes are well suited to long-term storage because:

• They develop thick, durable skins
• Tubers resist damage when harvested carefully
• They store well in cool, dark conditions
• They maintain cooking quality over time

This makes Valor a strong choice if you want homegrown potatoes through autumn and winter.

When to Plant Valor Potatoes

In the UK, Valor potatoes are usually planted:

• Early to mid-April, once the soil is workable and frost risk has reduced

Chitting seed potatoes before planting helps encourage strong early growth.

How to Grow Valor Potatoes

Soil Preparation

Valor potatoes grow best in fertile, well-drained soil. Before planting, dig in plenty of well-rotted compost or organic matter to improve soil structure and nutrient levels.

Planting Depth and Spacing

• Plant seed potatoes 10–15 cm deep
• Space plants 35–40 cm apart
• Leave 75 cm between rows

Good spacing allows airflow and room for large tubers to develop.

Earthing Up

Earth up soil around the stems as shoots grow. Continue earthing up until ridges are well formed to protect tubers from light and improve yields.

Watering

Water during dry spells, especially when plants are flowering and tubers are forming. Avoid waterlogging, as this can affect tuber quality and storage life.

Feeding

Apply a balanced fertiliser at planting time. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can encourage leafy growth at the expense of tuber development.

Growing Valor Potatoes in Containers

Valor potatoes are not ideal for containers due to their vigorous growth and large tubers. They perform best in open ground or large allotment beds.

When to Harvest Valor Potatoes

Valor potatoes are ready to harvest when:

• The foliage has completely died back

This is usually late summer to early autumn, around 18–22 weeks after planting.

For best storage results, cut back foliage and wait 7–14 days before lifting to allow skins to fully harden.

How to Harvest Valor Potatoes

• Lift carefully with a fork to avoid damaging tubers
• Allow potatoes to dry briefly on the soil surface
• Handle gently to prevent bruising

How to Store Valor Potatoes

Valor potatoes store very well when cured properly:

• Store in a cool, dark, frost-free place
• Avoid washing before storage
• Ensure good ventilation
• Check regularly and remove any damaged tubers

Properly stored Valor potatoes can last several months.

Common Problems When Growing Valor Potatoes

• Blight in wet summers
• Scab in dry or alkaline soil
• Slug damage in damp conditions

Good crop rotation, spacing, and even watering help reduce these issues.

Best Uses for Valor Potatoes

Valor potatoes are ideal for:

• Mash
• Roasting
• Baking
• Wedges

They are less suitable for salads due to their floury texture.

Why Grow Valor Potatoes?

• Excellent storage qualities
• Reliable maincrop yields
• Tolerant of varied soil conditions
• Ideal for winter use
• Traditional, proven variety

Tips for Best Results

• Always chit seed potatoes before planting
• Earth up thoroughly
• Maintain even soil moisture
• Rotate crops yearly to reduce disease risk