When to Lift Maincrop Potatoes
Maincrop potatoes are grown for large tubers, high yields, and long-term storage—but knowing exactly when to harvest is crucial for quality and keeping ability. Here’s how to time your lift and do it right for the perfect winter stash.
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Signs Your Maincrop Potatoes Are Ready
- Foliage Has Died Back:
Plants turn yellow, wilt, and collapse—usually 16–22 weeks after planting. - Thickened Skins:
After foliage dies, wait 2 weeks before harvesting to allow skins to toughen up. This improves storage life and reduces damage. - No New Growth:
The plant shouldn’t be sending up new green shoots from the ground.
How to Lift Maincrop Potatoes
- Pick a dry day to harvest—wet soil can make tubers muddy and increase storage rot risk.
- Start at the edge of the row or bed, using a fork to gently loosen the soil 30–45cm (12–18 in) from the plant’s base.
- Lift each plant, shake off excess soil, and collect all visible tubers.
- Sift through the soil for any stray “volunteer” potatoes—these can sprout next year if left behind.
Handling and Curing
- Cure Tubers:
Leave freshly lifted potatoes on the soil (if dry) or in a cool, well-ventilated place out of direct sun for 1–2 hours. Then cure them in the dark for about 10 days at 10–15°C (50–59°F). This hardens skins and heals minor wounds. - Don’t Wash:
Brush off clinging dirt, but avoid washing until you’re ready to eat.
Storage Preparation
- Sort out any damaged or diseased tubers—use these first as they won’t keep long.
- Store sound potatoes in paper sacks, hessian bags, or ventilated crates in a cool, dark, frost-free place.
Pro Tips
- Lift all maincrops before the first frost—freezing will ruin the tubers.
- Label your storage container with variety and date for better rotation.