When & Where to Plant Potatoes
⭐ Recommended Products — Garden & Allotment Essentials for March
March is when the growing season truly begins. Seeds are being sown daily, beds are prepared and late frosts are still possible — these essentials help produce strong plants and a successful start.
Seed Trays, Modules & Propagation Kits — perfect for tomatoes, brassicas, lettuce, onions and flowers. 👉
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Heated Propagators, Heat Mats & Grow Lights — improves germination and prevents leggy seedlings during cold nights. 👉
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Seed & Cutting Compost — essential for healthy seedlings and strong root growth. 👉
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Garden Fleece & Plant Protection Covers — protects seedlings, potatoes and early plantings from late frost. 👉
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Spring Vegetable Seeds — carrots, beetroot, peas, spinach and salads can all be started now. 👉
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Garden Kneeler & Seat — makes long sowing and planting sessions far more comfortable. 👉
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Pressure Washer (Greenhouse & Patio Cleaning) — clean patios, paths and greenhouses before planting. 👉
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Solar Garden Lights — perfect for enjoying the garden during brighter spring evenings. 👉
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When & Where to Plant Potatoes
Potatoes are adaptable but getting timing and location right makes for healthier, higher-yielding plants. Whether you’re using beds, containers, or grow bags, here’s how to give your spuds the best start.
When to Plant Potatoes
- First Earlies:
Plant as soon as the soil is workable, 2–4 weeks before your last expected frost. For most regions, that’s late February to March (under fleece or cloche in cold areas). - Second Earlies:
Plant from mid to late March or early April. - Maincrops:
Plant in April to early May, once soils have warmed up.
Tip:
Soil should be at least 6°C (43°F). Too cold, and seed potatoes may rot.
Where to Plant Potatoes
- Full Sun:
At least 6 hours of direct sun each day for strong growth and big yields. - Well-Drained Soil:
Avoid waterlogged spots—potatoes easily rot in poorly drained ground. - Soil Type:
Loose, friable (crumbly), slightly acidic soil is best. Heavy clay? Add compost or organic matter before planting. - Crop Rotation:
Never plant potatoes in the same spot 2 years in a row—rotate with beans, leafy greens, or brassicas to reduce pests and disease build-up.
Beds vs. Containers vs. Grow Bags
- Beds:
Choose a spot with space to earth up and rotate crops in future seasons. - Containers/Bags:
Use for small spaces or patios. Place where you get the most sun, and water/fertilize more often than in open ground.
Siting for Protection
- Late Frost Risk:
Be ready with fleece or cloches to cover shoots if a frost threatens after planting. - Wind:
Shelter from harsh winds, especially for tall maincrop varieties.
Soil Prep Checklist
- Remove weeds, stones, or old roots.
- Add compost or well-rotted manure weeks before planting.
- Avoid liming soil right before planting—it can cause potato scab.
Pro Tip for Eager Growers
- In very mild climates, you can try a late autumn/winter planting for “Christmas potatoes” using frost protection or in a greenhouse.
What’s Next?
Now you’re ready to get spuds in the soil! Dive into the next article: Chitting Potatoes: Is It Really Necessary? to decide if you should pre-sprout your seed potatoes or go straight to planting.