What To Know
- Let the cut pieces sit out for a day or two to allow the cut surfaces to dry and prevent rot.
- As your potato plants grow, gently mound soil up around the base of the stems to encourage the formation of more tubers.
- When the potato plants start to die back and the leaves turn yellow, it’s time to harvest.
Fingerling potatoes, with their unique shapes and vibrant flavors, are a delightful addition to any garden. Their quirky appearance and delicious taste make them a favorite among home gardeners. But how do you go about planting these miniature wonders? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing the right fingerling variety to harvesting your very own potato bounty.
Choosing the Right Fingerling Potato Variety
The first step in your fingerling potato journey is selecting the right variety. With a wide array of fingerling potato types available, you’ll find one that perfectly suits your taste and growing conditions. Consider these popular options:
- Purple Majesty: This variety boasts a deep purple skin and flesh, offering a rich, earthy flavor.
- Russian Banana: Known for its bright yellow skin and creamy yellow flesh, this fingerling delivers a sweet, nutty taste.
- Red Thumb: This variety features a reddish-purple skin and creamy white flesh, delivering a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Yukon Gold: While not technically a fingerling, Yukon Gold’s small size and distinctive flavor make it a suitable substitute.
Preparing the Soil for Your Fingerling Potato
Fingerling potatoes thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. Here’s how to prepare the perfect planting bed:
1. Test your soil: Use a soil testing kit to determine your soil’s pH level and nutrient content.
2. Amend the soil: If your soil is too acidic, add lime. If it’s lacking in nutrients, incorporate compost or well-rotted manure.
3. Till the soil: Turn over the soil to a depth of 12 inches, removing any weeds or debris.
4. Create raised beds: For optimal drainage, consider creating raised beds 12 inches high and 3-4 feet wide.
Planting Your Fingerling Potato Seed Pieces
Fingerling potatoes are typically planted using seed pieces, which are small sections of potato containing “eyes” or buds that will sprout into new plants. Here’s how to plant them:
1. Select healthy seed pieces: Choose potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes.
2. Cut the seed pieces: Cut each potato into 1-2 inch pieces, ensuring each piece has at least two eyes.
3. Allow the seed pieces to dry: Let the cut pieces sit out for a day or two to allow the cut surfaces to dry and prevent rot.
4. Dig planting holes: Space your planting holes 12-18 inches apart and 4-6 inches deep.
5. Place the seed pieces in the holes: Place the seed pieces in the holes with the eyes facing upwards.
6. Cover the seed pieces with soil: Backfill the holes with soil, gently patting it down.
Providing the Right Care for Your Fingerling Potato Plants
Once your fingerling potato plants emerge, they’ll need regular care to thrive. Here’s what you need to do:
- Water regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
- Weed regularly: Remove any weeds that compete with your potato plants for nutrients and water.
- Hilling: As your potato plants grow, gently mound soil up around the base of the stems to encourage the formation of more tubers.
- Fertilize as needed: If your soil is lacking in nutrients, apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
Recognizing and Preventing Common Fingerling Potato Pests and Diseases
Like any crop, fingerling potatoes are susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Colorado potato beetle: These beetles feed on potato leaves, causing significant damage. Handpick them off the plants or use an insecticide if necessary.
- Late blight: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on leaves and tubers. Prevent it by planting resistant varieties and avoiding overhead watering.
- Potato scab: This bacterial disease causes rough, scabby patches on the potato skin. Maintain a soil pH of 5.5-6.5 to prevent scab.
Harvesting Your Fingerling Potato Harvest
Your fingerling potatoes will be ready for harvest in 8-12 weeks, depending on the variety. Here’s how to harvest them:
1. Check for ripeness: When the potato plants start to die back and the leaves turn yellow, it’s time to harvest.
2. Dig up the potatoes: Carefully dig around the base of the plants to avoid damaging the tubers.
3. Store the potatoes: After cleaning the dirt off, store the potatoes in a cool, dark, and dry place.
Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor: Cooking with Fingerling Potatoes
Once you’ve harvested your fingerling potatoes, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. These miniature spuds are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They are delicious roasted, boiled, fried, or grilled. Here are some ideas:
- Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Herbs: Toss fingerling potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, then roast until tender and golden brown.
- Fingerling Potato Salad: Boil fingerling potatoes until tender, then toss them with mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and onions.
- Fingerling Potato Hash: Dice fingerling potatoes and sauté them with onions, peppers, and your favorite protein.
A Final Word: The Joy of Growing Your Own Fingerling Potatoes
Growing your own fingerling potatoes is a rewarding experience, offering a sense of accomplishment and the satisfaction of enjoying fresh, homegrown produce. From choosing the right variety to harvesting your bounty, this comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge to embark on your fingerling potato journey. So, get your hands dirty, plant your seed pieces, and get ready to enjoy the unique flavors and textures of these delightful miniature spuds.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I plant fingerling potatoes from the grocery store?
A: While it’s possible, it’s not recommended to plant potatoes from the grocery store. These potatoes may have been treated with chemicals to prevent sprouting, and they may not be disease-free. It’s best to purchase certified seed potatoes from a reputable source.
Q: How often should I water my fingerling potato plants?
A: Water your fingerling potato plants deeply but infrequently. Aim to water them once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What are some signs that my fingerling potato plants are not getting enough nutrients?
A: Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and poor tuber production. If you notice any of these signs, apply a balanced fertilizer to your plants.
Q: How long can I store my harvested fingerling potatoes?
A: Fingerling potatoes can be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place for several months. Avoid storing them near onions or other fruits and vegetables that produce ethylene gas, which can cause them to spoil faster.
Q: Can I grow fingerling potatoes in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow fingerling potatoes in containers. Choose a large container with a drainage hole and fill it with a good quality potting mix. Plant the seed pieces as you would in the garden, and water regularly.
