Growing potatoes is probably one of the easily things I have done. I purchased these 5 and 10-gallon grow bags from Amazon. Growing potatoes is a fairly easy process. I believe using the grow bags help make it more manageable.
I don’t know about you, but I need easy! As a busy mom that thinks they can take on it all easy and simple are the methods I tend to gravitate towards. Let’s talk potatoes! If you are like me, potatoes are on the grocery list every trip. I wanted to begin growing my own to help supplement and eventually grow enough to be self-sustained. After, researching I concluded using grow bags was the best method for me.
Benefits
Using grow bags makes your potato growing process simple and contained. The bags make them portable as well. If you notice they need more shade or more sun you can transfer them unbothered. The purpose of this guide is to provide step-by-step instructions for planting potatoes in grow bags.
To be honest I didn’t have many qualifications when it came to choosing a type of grow bag. I ended up finding this of amazon. They had a Velcro peep flap on the side. This flap allowed you access to growing roots. I did not use this feature until I was ready to harvest them.
STEP 1: Purchase seed potatoes
When it comes to selecting seed potatoes for planting, several essential factors should be taken into consideration to ensure a successful harvest. Firstly, it is crucial to choose certified disease-free seed potatoes from a reputable supplier. Disease-free seeds reduce the risk of transmitting pests and infections to your soil, helping to maintain a healthy growing environment. Secondly, consider the variety of seed potatoes that best suits your climate and growing conditions. Some varieties thrive in cooler temperatures, while others prefer warmer regions. Lastly, select seed potatoes that are firm, plump, and free of any cuts, bruises, or green spots. These indicators are signs of healthy and viable seed potatoes that will set the stage for a successful and rewarding potato-growing experience.
STEP 2: Prepare for Planting
Once the seed potatoes have grow eyes you are ready to plant. Larger potatoes can be cut in half. Allow cut potatoes to dry for 1 to 2 days allowing a film to cover the cut side.
STEP 3: Plant
Fill the bottom third of the bag with dirt space potatoes out evenly about 4 potatoes per bag. Loosely cover with dirt just enough to cover the eyes. Water the soil and place in the sun.
STEP 4: Use the Hill Method
As the potato plants begin to sprout you will use the hilling method to cover. cover the plants leaving only the top leaves poking out of the loose soil. YOu will repeat until the bag is full. The plant will continue to grow into a bush style plant.
STEP 5: Harvest
The potato plants will be ready to harvest once the plant has matured, stems bend, and foliage begins to die. You may notice yellowing of the plant as well. This usually occurs 90 days after planting. If you plant early enough you could get multiple harvest.
STEP 6: Store
After harvesting, “cure” the potatoes by placing them in a dark, well-ventilated area with temperatures between 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C) and high humidity for about two weeks. The kitchen counter or pantry shelf works fine! Curing helps the skin of the potatoes to toughen, sealing small wounds, and extending their storage life. Once cured, carefully sort through the potatoes, discarding any damaged, bruised, or diseased ones. Separate the potatoes based on size if desired, as different sizes might have varying storage requirements Choose a storage location that is cool, dark, and well-ventilated. The ideal temperature for potato storage is around 40°F (4°C). Avoid storing potatoes in the refrigerator, as this can convert the potato starch into sugar and affect their taste. Cardboard boxes, burlap sacks, or mesh bags are good options for storing potatoes. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and lead to rot. Place the potatoes in a single layer inside the storage container, ensuring good airflow between them. Check on the stored potatoes regularly and remove any sprouting or rotting potatoes to prevent spoilage from spreading.
By following these steps, you can enjoy your homegrown potatoes well into the winter months and keep them fresh and delicious for an extended period.
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