Curing Cut Potato Seed – Cool the cut seed to 38 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (45 degrees Celsius) and do not pile it higher than six feet. Good air circulation will maintain a constant temperature and minimize the development of carbon dioxide, which inhibits wound healing.85 to 95 percent relative humidity is required to promote healing and avoid dehydration.
Within six to ten days under these conditions, the curing process will be complete. If there is excessive airflow and insufficient humidity, a thin skin may grow on sliced surfaces. This thin covering is insufficient for wound protection and rapidly flakes off when touched. Warm the seed tubers prior to removing them from storage, unless there is a difficulty with sprouting.
Reheat seed for two days prior to planting in order to reactivate germination and prevent condensation. Remember that this method does not compensate for deficits in seed quality.
How long must you wait after harvesting potatoes before planting them?
Cut the seed potatoes into pieces using a clean knife two to three days prior to planting. Ensure that the last frost date has past before planting.
Types of Soil – Potatoes thrive in rich, well-drained soils. However, potatoes may grow in a variety of soil types. Inadequately drained soils typically result in misshapen potatoes and tuber rot. As these soils dry up and warm up faster, potatoes can be planted early on lighter, better-drained soils.
How are seed potatoes preserved before planting?
How to Save Your Own Potatoes for Seed – Before planting, your seed potatoes will require a time of rest. The resting time encourages sprouting, however incorrect storage might cause sprouting to occur prematurely. Temperature fluctuations can cause these early sprouting, thus it is essential to store seed potatoes properly.
- Don’t wash potatoes that will be used as seed potatoes the next year; simply brush off any dirt.
- Place them in a 50-degree cool, dry area (10 C.).
- Three to four weeks before planting, place the potatoes in a brighter setting, such as a sunny window or under grow lights.
- During this time, the seed potatoes should be kept at a high level of relative humidity.
Covering seeds with wet burlap sacks will also promote sprouting. Small potato seed may be planted whole, however giant potatoes must be chopped. Each seed should include a minimum of two or three eyes and weigh around 2 ounces (170 g.). Plant in nutrient-dense, well-draining soil with six inches of all-purpose fertilizer mixed into the surface (15 cm.).
- It is advisable to spread a thick layer of organic mulch (grass clippings, straw, or newspaper) around the plants, as most people sow seed potatoes in hills.
- Hills should be 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) apart, and rows should be 30 to 36 inches (76 to 91 cm) apart.
- Irrigate the slope each week with approximately 1-2 inches (2.5-1 cm) of water at the plant’s base.
For optimal results when utilizing your own seed potatoes, it is essential to store the tubers properly and give them time to rest. Choose tried-and-true potato kinds, such as heritage varieties that our grandparents habitually planted and kept for their own seed potatoes.
