How to Harvest Potatoes: A StepbyStep Guide
How to Harvest Potato?
To harvest potatoes, you can use a garden fork or spade to gently lift the soil and expose the potatoes.
Be careful not to damage the potatoes during harvest, as this can lead to rot.
If you are growing potatoes in a bag, harvest them when the foliage has yellowed and died back.
The indicators of potato readiness for harvest include plant vigor, yellowing, wilting, and rubbing the skin off a potato.
Different potato varieties have different harvest times, with early season potatoes maturing in 60-80 days, mid-season potatoes in 80-100 days, and later season potatoes in 100-130 days.
After harvest, cure the potatoes by placing them in an area with 45-60 degrees Fahrenheit (7-16 degrees Celsius) and 85-95% humidity for two weeks.
Do not wash the potatoes before storing, and store them in a dark area with a temperature of 38-40 degrees Fahrenheit (3-4 degrees Celsius) and 90-95% humidity.
Lastly, it is important to know that there are two types of potatoes: mature or maincrop potatoes, which are harvested when most of the top foliage has withered, and immature or new potatoes, which can be harvested at any time and are usually eaten with the skin.
Key Points:
- Use a garden fork or spade to lift the soil and expose the potatoes
- Be careful not to damage the potatoes to prevent rot
- Harvest bag-grown potatoes when the foliage has yellowed and died back
- Look for indicators such as plant vigor, yellowing, wilting, and rubbing the skin off a potato to determine readiness for harvest
- Different potato varieties have different harvest times: early season (60-80 days), mid-season (80-100 days), and later season (100-130 days)
- Cure potatoes for two weeks in an area with specific temperature and humidity conditions after harvest
- Do not wash potatoes before storing and keep them in a dark area with specific temperature and humidity conditions
- There are two types of potatoes: mature/maincrop potatoes and immature/new potatoes
Did You Know?
1. In a small village called Cropperston in Scotland, locals celebrate the annual “Potato Dance” where participants attempt to peel as many potatoes as possible within a set time limit, all while dancing to traditional Scottish music.
2. The largest recorded potato ever grown weighed in at a whopping 18 pounds and 4 ounces. This colossal tuber was unearthed by a farmer named Pete Simon in Wisconsin, USA, in 2010.
3. Contrary to popular belief, potatoes are not native to Ireland. The humble potato was originally brought to Ireland from the Andes Mountains in South America in the late 16th century by Spanish explorers.
4. Did you know that potatoes were the first vegetable to be grown in space? In 1995, NASA successfully cultivated a potato plant aboard the space shuttle Columbia, marking a significant milestone in extraterrestrial horticulture.
5. In the peculiar world of competitive farming, the Guinness World Records contain a category for the fastest potato harvest. The record is currently held by Canadian farmer Bryan Pagel, who harvested one tonne (approximately 2,204 pounds) of potatoes in just 2 minutes and 15 seconds.
Choosing The Right Time And Conditions For Harvesting Potatoes
To ensure a successful potato harvest, it is essential to choose the right time and conditions for harvesting. Potatoes can be grown in a variety of climates, but the timing may vary depending on the region. In northern climates, potatoes are typically grown as a summer crop, while in southern regions, they can be grown as a winter crop.
To determine the optimal planting time, it is recommended to plant seed potatoes 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. This will allow the potatoes to establish strong roots before the arrival of cold temperatures. Planting potatoes in containers is also a popular option, especially for those with limited space.
The time it takes for potatoes to mature depends on the variety and growing conditions. Early-season potatoes can be harvested in 60-80 days, while mid-season potatoes are ready to be picked 80-100 days after planting. Later season potatoes require 100-130 days to mature. Various indicators can help determine if the potatoes are ready for harvest. These include plant vigor, yellowing of the leaves, wilting, and rubbing the skin off a potato to check the development of tubers. It is advisable to harvest on a warm, dry day after a few days of no rainfall.
Different Harvesting Methods For Potatoes
There are different methods for harvesting potatoes, depending on factors such as the type of potato grown and personal preference. The two main types of potatoes are mature (maincrop) and immature (new potatoes).
Maincrop potatoes are typically harvested when most of the foliage has withered. This usually occurs during the early to mid-fall. When harvesting maincrop potatoes, it is best to use a spading fork or garden fork to gently lift the soil and expose the potatoes. Care should be taken not to damage the potatoes during harvest, as it can lead to rot and spoilage.
On the other hand, new potatoes can be harvested at any time, especially when the plants begin to flower. The harvesting process for new potatoes is slightly different. Instead of using a fork, gently lift the plant with your hands, a garden trowel, or a hand multi-pronged garden fork to carefully remove the potatoes. New potatoes are often eaten with their skin and are considered to be the most flavorful if consumed immediately after harvesting.
It is important to note that different potato varieties have varying harvest times. Large, mature potatoes are typically ready to be harvested about 15 weeks after planting. New potatoes can be harvested when the plants begin to flower and for another 2 to 3 weeks. It is recommended to check the specific harvest times for each variety to ensure optimal flavor and quality.
Curing And Storing Potatoes For Long-Term Use
After harvesting potatoes, proper curing and storage techniques are vital to extend their shelf life and maintain their quality. Curing is the process of allowing cuts, nicks, and bruises on the potatoes to heal, which helps prevent rot and spoilage.
To cure potatoes, place them in an area with temperatures between 45-60°F (7-16°C) and humidity levels of 85-95%. This environment should be maintained for two weeks to allow the potatoes to dry and harden their skins. During this time, it is crucial not to wash the potatoes, as moisture can facilitate the growth of molds and mildews.
Once the curing process is complete, it is time to store the potatoes. Potatoes should be stored in a dark area with a temperature range of 38-40°F (3-4°C) and humidity levels of 90-95%. Exposing potatoes to light can cause the skins to turn green, which is caused by the toxic alkaloid solanine. Green potatoes should not be eaten, as they taste bitter and can cause illness. It is also important to avoid storing potatoes with apples or other fruits that produce ethylene gas, as it can accelerate the spoiling process.
The storage period for potatoes depends on their variety and the specific conditions of the storage area. Main crop potatoes can be stored for up to 2-3 months, while new potatoes have a shorter storage life. It is crucial to regularly inspect stored potatoes for any signs of sprouting, shriveling, or rotting. Removing sprouts as they form can help maintain the quality of stored potatoes.
Tips For Handling And Preventing Damage During Potato Harvesting
When harvesting potatoes, handle them with care to prevent bruising and damage, which can decrease their shelf life. Bruised potatoes are more susceptible to rot and spoilage, so it is crucial to follow proper handling techniques.
To minimize damage during harvesting, use a garden fork or spade to gently lift the soil and expose the potatoes. Start working from the edge of the planting row or bed and move inward. Most of the potatoes will be located in the top 4 to 6 inches of soil.
If the tubers are growing deep, a garden spade can be used to lift the entire hill. Be mindful of the weather conditions when harvesting potatoes. It is best to dig potatoes when the soil is dry, as harvesting in wet conditions can lead to muddy potatoes that are challenging to store.
Before storing newly harvested potatoes, it is recommended to allow them to dry in the garden for an hour or so. If the soil does not easily drop off, it can be gently brushed off. However, washing potatoes just after harvesting should be avoided, as this can shorten their storage life.
- Handle potatoes with care to prevent bruising and damage
- Use a garden fork or spade to gently lift the soil and expose the potatoes
- Start harvesting from the edge of the planting row or bed and move inward
- Most potatoes are located in the top 4 to 6 inches of soil
- Be mindful of weather conditions, harvest when the soil is dry
- Allow newly harvested potatoes to dry in the garden for an hour
- Gently brush off any soil that doesn’t easily drop off
- Avoid washing potatoes immediately after harvesting
Understanding The Different Harvest Periods And Varieties Of Potatoes
Potatoes come in various varieties, each with its own unique characteristics and harvest periods. Understanding the different types of potatoes and their harvest times can help ensure a successful harvest.
There are three main harvest periods for potatoes: first early, second early, and main crop. First early potatoes are harvested from early to midsummer when they reach about the size of an egg. These tender and flavorful potatoes are perfect for early-season dishes.
Second early potatoes are typically harvested in late summer to early fall. They are slightly larger than first early potatoes and can be stored for a short period or enjoyed immediately.
The main crop potatoes have the longest growing time and are harvested in early to mid-fall. These potatoes have fully developed tubers and can be stored for an extended period.
Different potato varieties have different harvest times, and it is important to check the specific guidelines for each variety. Some varieties may not bloom, so it is necessary to check near the base of the plant for developing tubers.
6. Potential Issues And Precautions During Potato Harvesting And Storage
While harvesting and storing potatoes, there are several issues that require attention and precautions:
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Sprout development: One potential issue is the development of sprouts on stored potatoes. Promptly remove sprouts to prevent them from consuming the nutrients of the potato.
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Greening of potato skins: Another issue is the potential greening of potato skins when exposed to light. Green potatoes contain the toxic alkaloid solanine and should be avoided. Store potatoes in a dark environment to prevent greening.
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“Sweet” taste: Potatoes in storage can develop a “sweet” taste due to the conversion of starch into sugar during the breathing process. To avoid this sweet taste, it is recommended to take potatoes out of storage several days before cooking to allow the sugar to revert to starch.
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Refrigeration: Refrigerating potatoes can cause them to shrivel. Store potatoes in a dark, dry place with proper ventilation to maintain their quality.
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Ethylene exposure: Avoid storing potatoes with apples or other ethylene-producing fruits, as this can lead to spoiling.
Remember to regularly inspect stored potatoes for signs of sprouting or rotting. Potatoes with deep cuts or bruises should be used immediately and not stored. Firm potatoes with no soft spots are suitable for long-term storage of up to 8 months.
Takeaway: Properly following these precautions and guidelines will ensure a successful potato harvest and allow you to enjoy the freshness and flavor of homegrown potatoes throughout the year.
- Remove sprouts promptly
- Store potatoes in a dark environment
- Take potatoes out of storage several days before cooking
- Store potatoes in a dark, dry place with proper ventilation
- Avoid storing potatoes with apples or other ethylene-producing fruits
- Regularly inspect stored potatoes for sprouting or rotting
- Use potatoes with cuts or bruises immediately
- Store firm potatoes with no soft spots for long-term storage (up to 8 months)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know my potatoes are ready to harvest?
One way to determine if your potatoes are ready to harvest is by observing the color of the leaves on your plant. As the potato plant matures and the tubers form underground, the leaves will start to turn brown, dry out, and eventually die off. This change in color is a reliable indication that your potatoes are ready to be dug up and enjoyed.
In addition to the change in leaf color, you can also gently dig near the base of the plant to check for the size and maturity of the potatoes. When the tubers have reached a suitable size, typically around 2-3 inches in diameter, and the skin appears firm and mature, it is a good indication that they are ready for harvest. Remember to be gentle when digging around the plant to avoid damaging the potatoes and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
How do you process harvested potatoes?
After the potatoes are harvested, it is crucial to handle them with care to ensure their quality. To begin, it is important to minimize tuber exposure to light during the cleaning process. Once the potatoes are cleaned, they should be cured in a dark and well-ventilated area with moderate temperatures and high humidity for approximately a week to 10 days. This curing process enhances their longevity. Following the curing stage, the storage temperature should be gradually reduced to about 40 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal table use.
Can I eat potatoes right after harvest?
Potatoes are indeed delicious, but it is advisable to give them some time after harvest before consuming them. To ensure their optimal quality, it is recommended to cure potatoes intended for storage. During this process, the potatoes are spread out in a single layer on newspaper or cardboard, then placed in a dark and cool spot for about two weeks. This curing period allows for the healing of any wounds, as well as the strengthening and thickening of their skins, effectively prolonging their shelf life. Once fully cured, go ahead and enjoy your perfectly prepared potatoes!
Do potatoes need to dry after harvest?
After harvesting potatoes, it is crucial to let them dry for at least an hour on a screen or lattice. However, if you wish to store maincrop potatoes, curing them for one to two weeks is recommended. During this time, the potatoes’ cuts, nicks, and bruises have the opportunity to heal, ensuring optimal storage conditions. This process should take place in a dark, dry environment with a slight level of humidity.