Stop relying on store-bought potatoes. Embrace these 10 insights for a massive potato yield.

Potatoes are a staple food in many homes, not just for their versatility and taste, but also for their nutritional content. However, some home gardeners and small-scale farmers have yet to unlock the full potential of their potato yields. Relying on store-bought potatoes can be convenient, but it also means missing out on the benefits of homegrown produce such as better flavor, organic cultivation, and the satisfaction of self-sufficiency.

With some insight and know-how, you can transform a modest garden plot into a bountiful source of this beloved tuber. The following insights are aimed at helping you gain a massive potato yield from the comfort of your own garden.

Select potato varieties that are suitable for your climate and resistant to local pests and diseases. There are early, mid-season, and late varieties. Early ones mature quickly and are best if you want to harvest sooner, while late varieties are known for better storage capabilities.

Potatoes thrive in loose, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Ensure your soil has a pH between 5.0 and 5.5 for optimum growth. Amend your soil with compost or aged manure several weeks before planting.

Plant your potatoes after the danger of frost has passed. Potatoes can handle cool weather, but the soil must be workable. Too early, and you could stunt their growth; too late, and you might not give them enough time to mature.

Cut seed potatoes into pieces with at least one or two eyes each. Plant these about three inches deep and space them about 12 inches apart. Rows should be spaced about 36 inches apart to allow for plant growth and easy harvesting.

Water your potatoes consistently to keep the soil moist, especially during tuber formation. However, be careful not to overwater as this can lead to rot.

As the plants grow, heap soil around the base of the stem, which encourages more tuber production along the buried stem. This process, known as hilling, should be done several times throughout the growing season.

Keep an eye out for pests and diseases that commonly affect potato crops, such as Colorado potato beetles or blight. Use organic pesticides and practice crop rotation to prevent disease buildup in the soil.

Mulching with straw or leaves can help maintain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep tubers cool. It can also make harvesting easier, as some potatoes may grow close to the soil surface and can be exposed to sunlight, turning them green and toxic.

New potatoes can be harvested when the plants flower. For mature potatoes, wait until the top of the vine dies back. Then, let the potatoes sit in the ground for another 2 weeks to toughen up their skins for storage.

Store harvested potatoes in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place. Ideal storage temperatures are between 45–50 degrees Fahrenheit (7–10 degrees Celsius). Avoid washing your potatoes before storage, as the moisture can promote decay.

By embracing these ten insights, you’re not just guaranteed a plentiful harvest; you’re also on your way to becoming more self-reliant, reducing your food miles, and enjoying the unrivaled taste of homegrown potatoes. Let these tips be your guide, and you might find you’ll never want to rely on store-bought potatoes again!