When to Plant Potatoes in the UK

Knowing when to plant potatoes in the UK is key to getting healthy plants and good harvests. Planting too early risks frost damage, while planting too late can reduce yields. The correct timing depends on the type of potato and local weather conditions.

⭐ 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.
👉 Click here to see top options

• 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.
👉 Click here to see top options

• Potato Grow Bags / Containers
Reusable, breathable bags designed specifically for growing potatoes — great for patios, small gardens, or increasing yield in limited space.
👉 Click here to see top options

• 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.
👉 Click here to see top options

• 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.
👉 Click here to see top options

Understanding Potato Types

Potatoes are grouped into three main categories based on how long they take to mature:

• First Earlies
• Second Earlies
• Maincrop

Each group has a slightly different planting window.

When to Plant First Early Potatoes

First early potatoes are the earliest to be planted and harvested.

• Planting time: Late February to March
• Harvest time: May to June

Plant first earlies once the soil is workable and no longer waterlogged. In colder areas, planting may be delayed until March. Protect emerging shoots with fleece if frost is forecast.

Popular first early varieties include:

• Arran Pilot
• Rocket
• Swift
• Casablanca

When to Plant Second Early Potatoes

Second early potatoes follow first earlies and offer slightly larger yields.

• Planting time: March to early April
• Harvest time: June to July

They are less vulnerable to frost than first earlies but still benefit from protection in cold spells.

Popular second early varieties include:

• Charlotte
• Wilja
• Nadine
• Kestrel

When to Plant Maincrop Potatoes

Maincrop potatoes are planted later and grown for larger harvests and storage.

• Planting time: Early to mid-April
• Harvest time: August to October

Maincrop potatoes need a long growing season and are usually planted once the risk of severe frost has passed.

Popular maincrop varieties include:

• Maris Piper
• King Edward
• Cara
• Sarpo Mira
• Valor

Regional Differences in the UK

Planting dates can vary depending on location:

• Southern UK: Plant slightly earlier
• Northern England & Scotland: Plant 1–2 weeks later
• Coastal or sheltered gardens: Often allow earlier planting

Always prioritise soil conditions over calendar dates.

Soil Conditions for Planting Potatoes

Potatoes should only be planted when:

• Soil is workable, not sticky or waterlogged
• Soil temperature is above 7°C
• Ground drains freely

Planting into cold, wet soil increases the risk of rot and poor growth.

Should You Chit Potatoes Before Planting?

Chitting helps potatoes grow faster and more reliably.

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

Chitting is especially useful for early potatoes.

Planting Potatoes in Containers

Potatoes can be planted in containers at the same time as ground-grown crops.

Typical container planting times:

• First earlies: March
• Second earlies: Late March to early April
• Maincrop: April

Containers warm up faster, which can allow slightly earlier planting.

Signs It’s Too Early to Plant

Avoid planting potatoes if:

• Frost is forecast regularly
• Soil is saturated
• Seed potatoes are rotting instead of sprouting

Waiting an extra week often leads to stronger plants.

Signs It’s Too Late to Plant

Planting too late may result in:

• Reduced yields
• Smaller tubers
• Higher blight risk later in summer

Maincrop potatoes planted after late April may struggle to fully mature.

Quick UK Potato Planting Calendar

• Late Feb–March: First earlies
• March–Early April: Second earlies
• Early–Mid April: Maincrop

Tips for Best Results

• Always check soil conditions before planting
• Earth up plants to protect against frost
• Rotate crops yearly to reduce disease
• Choose varieties suited to your local climate