What To Know
- Turn over the soil to a depth of 12 inches to loosen it and incorporate any amendments.
- Spread a layer of compost or aged manure over the soil and work it in with a garden fork or tiller.
- You’ll know your small potatoes are ready for harvest when the potato plants start to die back and the leaves turn yellow.
Small potatoes, often called “new potatoes” or “baby potatoes,” are a culinary delight. Their delicate flavor and tender texture make them perfect for roasting, boiling, or simply enjoying as a side dish. But did you know that growing your own small potatoes can be incredibly rewarding? This guide will walk you through the process of cultivating these tiny treasures in your garden, ensuring a bountiful harvest of deliciousness.
Choosing the Right Potato Variety
The first step in your small potato journey is selecting the right variety. Not all potato varieties are created equal, and some are better suited for producing small potatoes than others. Here are some popular options:
- Fingerling Potatoes: These elongated, finger-shaped potatoes are known for their unique flavor and excellent texture. They are generally small in size, making them ideal for a “new potato” harvest.
- Red Bliss Potatoes: This classic variety produces small, red-skinned potatoes with a creamy white flesh. They are versatile and can be used in various dishes.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These yellow-fleshed potatoes are known for their buttery flavor and creamy texture. They tend to produce smaller potatoes, making them perfect for a “new potato” harvest.
- Purple Majesty Potatoes: These striking potatoes feature purple skin and flesh. They have a sweet and nutty flavor and are generally smaller in size.
Preparing the Soil for Your Tiny Treasures
Small potatoes thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. Before planting, amend your soil with organic matter like compost or aged manure to improve its structure and nutrient content. Aim for a soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Here’s how to prepare your soil:
1. Tilling or Digging: Turn over the soil to a depth of 12 inches to loosen it and incorporate any amendments.
2. Adding Compost: Spread a layer of compost or aged manure over the soil and work it in with a garden fork or tiller.
3. Testing Soil pH: Use a soil pH testing kit to determine the pH of your soil. If necessary, adjust the pH by adding lime or sulfur.
4. Raking and Smoothing: Rake the soil smooth to create a level planting surface.
Planting Your Small Potato Seed Potatoes
Once your soil is prepped, it’s time to plant your seed potatoes. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Choosing Seed Potatoes: Select seed potatoes that are firm, healthy, and free of blemishes.
2. Cutting Seed Potatoes: Cut each seed potato into pieces, ensuring each piece has at least two eyes (the growing points). Allow the cut pieces to dry for a few hours to prevent rot.
3. Planting Depth: Plant the seed potato pieces 4-6 inches deep and 12-18 inches apart.
4. Watering: Water the soil thoroughly after planting.
Nurturing Your Small Potato Plants
Once your seed potatoes are planted, it’s crucial to provide them with the care they need to thrive. Here’s a breakdown of essential care practices:
- Watering: Water your potato plants regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim for consistent moisture, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- Weeding: Regularly remove weeds from around your potato plants to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
- Hilling: As your potato plants grow, gently mound soil around their base to encourage the formation of more tubers. This process, called hilling, helps to protect the developing potatoes from sunlight and promotes their growth.
- Fertilizing: You can fertilize your potato plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks. However, avoid excessive fertilization, as it can encourage foliage growth at the expense of tuber production.
Harvesting Your Tiny Treasures
You’ll know your small potatoes are ready for harvest when the potato plants start to die back and the leaves turn yellow. Here’s how to harvest them:
1. Digging: Carefully dig around the base of the potato plant to avoid damaging the tubers.
2. Gently Lifting: Gently lift the potatoes from the soil, being careful not to break them.
3. Cleaning: Brush off any excess soil from the potatoes.
Enjoying Your Small Potato Harvest
Once you’ve harvested your small potatoes, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Here are some ideas for using your fresh bounty:
- Boiled New Potatoes: Simply boil your small potatoes until tender. They are delicious with butter, herbs, and salt.
- Roasted New Potatoes: Toss your small potatoes with olive oil, herbs, and spices, then roast them in a hot oven until golden brown.
- Potato Salad: Small potatoes are perfect for making a classic potato salad.
- Potato Soup: Blend your small potatoes with broth, cream, and seasonings for a creamy and comforting soup.
Beyond the Harvest: Storing Your Small Potatoes
To ensure your small potatoes stay fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Here are some tips:
- Cool and Dark: Store your small potatoes in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place, such as a basement or pantry.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause the potatoes to sprout and become bitter.
- Separate from Other Produce: Store potatoes separately from other produce, as they release ethylene gas, which can accelerate the ripening of other fruits and vegetables.
FAQs
Q: Can I grow small potatoes in pots?
A: Yes, you can grow small potatoes in pots. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and deep. Plant your seed potatoes as described above, and remember to water and fertilize regularly.
Q: How long does it take for small potatoes to mature?
A: The time it takes for small potatoes to mature varies depending on the variety and growing conditions. Generally, it takes about 60-90 days from planting to harvest.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect small potatoes?
A: Some common pests and diseases that can affect small potatoes include Colorado potato beetles, aphids, potato blight, and potato scab. You can find organic solutions to these problems online or at your local garden center.
Q: Can I save potatoes from my harvest to use as seed potatoes next year?
A: It’s best to purchase fresh seed potatoes each year. Potatoes that are grown from seed potatoes will be more likely to produce healthy and disease-free plants.
Final Thoughts: Tiny Treasures, Big Rewards
Growing small potatoes can be a rewarding and delicious experience. By following these simple steps, you can cultivate a bountiful harvest of tiny treasures to enjoy throughout the season. So, grab some seed potatoes, get your hands dirty, and prepare to savor the flavors of your own homegrown small potatoes!
