What to know

Potatoes , a staple in many culinary art , expand in Tennessee’stemperate climate . Planting potatoes in this region is a rewarding endeavor that can give plentiful harvests . This comprehensive guide will ply you with step - by - step instructionson how toplant potatoesin Tennessee , ensuring a successful and fruitful time of year .

Choosing the Right Potatoes

The first footfall is take the rightpotato varietyfor yourTennessee garden . Choose varieties that are disease - tolerant and well - suit to the state ’s climate . Some democratic alternative admit :

Preparing the Soil

Potatoes prefer well - drained , loose soilwith a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 . Before planting , amend the soil withorganic mattersuch as compost or manure to improve its structure and fertility . take away any large rocks or junk that may block ascendent emergence .

Planting Time

In Tennessee , the ideal time to implant potatoes is inearly spring , between March and April . The stain temperature should be at least 45 ° F ( 7 ° coulomb ) . Avoid imbed in inhuman or wet conditions .

Seed Preparation

Before planting , burn potatoesintoseed piecesthat are about 2 inches in diam and have at least one “ optic ” ( little bump wheresprouts emerge ) . allow for the semen pieces to dry for a few days before plant to reduce the risk of rotting .

Planting Process

1 . Dig Trenches : jab trenchesin theprepared soilabout 4 - 6 inches mystifying and 12 - 18 in apart.2 . Place Seed Pieces : Place theseed piecesin the trench , with theeyes facingup . quad the pieces 12 - 15 inch apart.3 . Cover oceanic abyss : Fill the trench with soil andgently patdown to firm .

Watering and Fertilizing

pee thepotatoes regularly , specially during teetotal spells . Avoid overwatering , as this can lead to root rot . Fertilize the potatoes once a month with abalanced fertilizeraccording to the maker ’s instructions .

Hilling

As thepotato plant grow , hill up the stain around the base of the stems . Thisprocess encourages source growthandprevents greeningof the Tuber .

Pest and Disease Control

potato are susceptible to various pestis and disease . coarse issues let in :

Harvesting

Potatoes are ready to reap when the foliage ferment yellow anddies back . Dig up thetubers carefullyusing a nigger or fork . set aside the potatoes to dry in a cool , sinister placefor a few days before put in .

Storing Potatoes

computer memory potatoes in a coolheaded , moody , anddry placewithgood ventilation . idealistic storage condition are between 40 - 45 ° F ( 4 - 7 ° C ) and 85 - 90 % humidness .

Questions We Hear a Lot

1 . What is the best way to contain Colorado Potato Beetles?Handpicking beetles and usinginsecticidal soapare efficacious methods.2 . Can Iplant potatoesin raise beds?Yes , resurrect layer provide good drainageand can extend the growing season.3 . How often should I fertilize potatoes?Fertilize once a month with a balanced fertilizer.4 . How deep should I institute potatoes?Plant germ slice about 4 - 6 inch deep.5 . What is theideal soil pHfor potatoes?5.5 to 6.5.6 . Can Igrow potatoesin containers?Yes , but select alarge containerwith good drainage.7 . What are the signs of potato blight?Brown orblack spotson leaves and stems.8 . How can Iprevent greeningof potatoes?Hill up the soil around the root of the stems.9 . What is the best way to store potatoes?In a cool , dark , anddry placewith good ventilation.10 . Can Iplant potatoesin the fall?Yes , in some parts of Tennessee , settle plantingis possible . However , consult local resourcesfor specific recommendations .