When & Where to Plant Potatoes

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

1. Remove weeds, stones, or old roots.
2. Add compost or well-rotted manure weeks before planting.
3. 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.