When to plant
Plant seed potatoes in early to mid-spring once the soil has warmed and the risk of hard frost has passed. In mild climates, early varieties can be planted from late winter under fleece or in tunnels. Avoid planting in very cold, waterlogged soil, as this slows growth and can cause tubers to rot.
Where to plant
Choose a sunny, open position with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Potatoes do best in vegetable plots, raised beds or large containers and grow particularly well in light, open sites sheltered from strong winds. Avoid planting where potatoes or other solanums (tomatoes, aubergines, peppers) grew last year to reduce disease build-up.
Preparing the soil
Loosen soil to 25–30 cm depth and remove stones and perennial weeds. Potatoes prefer deep, loose, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil enriched with plenty of compost or well-rotted manure. Improve heavy clay with grit and organic matter; enrich very sandy soil with extra compost so it holds moisture and nutrients.
Preparing the seed tubers
Choose firm, healthy seed potatoes with no signs of rot. A few weeks before planting, “chit” them by placing tubers in a cool, bright, frost-free place so short, sturdy sprouts form from the eyes. Do not break these shoots off. Cut large tubers only if necessary, making sure each piece has at least two good eyes, and allow cut surfaces to dry before planting.
Planting the seed tubers
Dig trenches 10–15 cm deep. Place seed tubers with sprouts facing upwards, spacing them about 30 cm apart in the row. Space rows 60–75 cm apart to allow room for earthing up. Cover with soil and water lightly if conditions are dry. For containers, plant 3–5 tubers in a large pot or grow bag, 10–15 cm deep in a rich, free-draining mix.
After planting
Keep the soil just moist while shoots emerge. As soon as stems reach about 15–20 cm tall, gently draw soil up around the base of the plants to form a low ridge or “earth up” the row. This protects young foliage from late frost and encourages more tubers to form along the buried stems.
During growth
Water regularly during dry spells, especially when plants are in flower, as this is when tubers are swelling. Avoid waterlogging. A balanced organic fertiliser or additional compost can be applied before planting; potatoes rarely need heavy feeding later if the soil was well prepared. Keep beds weed-free so plants don’t have to compete for moisture and nutrients.
Harvesting
For early varieties like Frieslander, Eersteling and Charlotte, start checking for small “new” potatoes once plants begin flowering or about 10–12 weeks after planting. Gently dig at the side of the row to feel for tubers. Maincrop types like Bintje, Irene, Mozart, Bildtstar and Roseval are usually ready 15–20 weeks after planting, when foliage has yellowed and started to die back. Lift tubers carefully with a fork, letting soil dry off before storing.
After harvest / crop rotation
Remove all plant debris after lifting the crop and do not leave old tubers in the ground, as they can harbour pests and disease. Store sound, undamaged potatoes in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place. Rotate your potato bed each year, leaving at least three years before growing potatoes or tomatoes in the same spot again.
Variety notes
Potato Bintje: Classic all-rounder with yellow flesh; excellent for mashing, frying and oven dishes.
Potato Irene: Firm, flavourful potato suitable for boiling and baking; good storage.
Potato Mozart: Red-skinned, yellow-fleshed variety; great for roasting and mashing.
Potato Bildtstar: Early to mid-season potato with firm texture; ideal for boiling and salads.
Potato Roseval: Waxier, red-skinned salad potato with superb flavour; holds shape well when cooked.
Potato Frieslander: Very early variety, perfect for new potatoes with a mild, creamy taste.
Potato Eersteling: Early cropper producing smooth, yellow tubers; ideal as a first, tender harvest.
Potato Charlotte: Classic salad potato, firm and waxy with excellent flavour; great hot or cold.
Extra tips
Always cover developing tubers well with soil to prevent greening. In frost-prone areas, keep horticultural fleece handy to protect early foliage. For continuous harvests, plant a mix of early and maincrop varieties and stagger planting dates.
