Growing Potatoes

Soil Preparation & Testing

Soil Test: Start with a detailed soil analysis to determine pH, nutrient levels, and organic matter. Since your business already does soil testing, this is a big advantage.pH Levels: Potatoes prefer a slightly acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.0). If the soil is too alkaline, apply elemental sulfur to lower pH.Drainage: Well-drained, sandy loam soils are best. Avoid heavy clay soils or improve drainage by hilling and adding organic matter.

Fertilization & Soil Health

Nitrogen (N): Apply moderate nitrogen (~150 lbs/acre), but avoid excessive N, which promotes foliage over tubers.Phosphorus (P) & Potassium (K):         P is essential for root and tuber development. (~100–150 lbs/acre)    K improves tuber size and disease resistance (~200–300 lbs/acre).
Calcium & Magnesium: Essential for skin quality and preventing hollow heart.Sulfur & Micronutrients: Apply boron, manganese, and zinc if needed based on soil tests.

Planting & Spacing

Timing: Plant mid-February to early March for spring crops, and late summer for a fall crop.Spacing:
    Rows: 30–36 inches apart    Within-row: 10–12 inches apart
Seed Pieces: Use disease-free, certified seed potatoes and cut them into pieces with at least one or two eyes.

Pest & Disease Control

Common Pests:
      Colorado Potato Beetle – Rotate crops, use insecticides (if needed).    Wireworms & Cutworms – Use soil insecticides if pressure is high.    Aphids – Carry viral diseases, so monitor and control early.
Diseases:      Late Blight & Early Blight – Use fungicides and avoid overhead watering.    Scab – Keep pH below 5.5 to minimize risk.    Blackleg & Soft Rot – Use well-drained soil and disease-free seed.

Red Pontiac

Variety Selection     Choose varieties suited to the Southeastern climate, such as:        Yukon Gold – High yields, disease resistance        Red Pontiac – Thrives in sandy soils        Kennebec – Good for storage, resistant to heat stress        

Potatoe Eyes

Harvest & Storage      Harvesting:        Wait 2–3 weeks after foliage dies back for skins to set.        Use gentle harvesting methods to prevent bruising.    Curing & Storage:        Cure for 1–2 weeks at 60–65°F with high humidity.        Store at 40–50°F in a dark, ventilated area.

Hilling & Weed Management

Hilling: Cover stems with soil 2–3 times before flowering to prevent sun exposure (which turns tubers green).Weed Control:    Use pre-emergent herbicides like metribuzin.    Hand-weeding or cultivation is essential for      small plots.