Published in the News-Review February 28, 2025

By: Mackenzi Hall

“Growing Potatoes in Your Garden”

Question: This year I would like to focus on growing crops that my family really enjoys eating. One of the main staples in our pantry are potatoes. Can you please give me some tips on how to properly plant and take care of potatoes in order to get the biggest harvest? 

Answer: What’s not to love about the potato? It’s so versatile in the kitchen, comes in many shapes, sizes and colors and – bonus – it’s one of the easier backyard crops to grow! If you are looking to try your hand at cultivating potatoes this spring, here are a few simple steps to follow to ensure you achieve an excellent harvest. 

If you haven’t already decided which potato variety to grow, here are some of the more popular varieties for our region: 

• Yukon Gold: A yellow-fleshed variety known for its creamy texture and buttery flavor. They are versatile and do well in various soils. 
• Russet Burbank: The classic baking potato, it has a high starch content that makes it perfect for frying and mashing. 
• Red Chieftain: A highly adaptable red-skinned variety that is excellent for boiling and roasting. 
• Fingerling: Known for their unique shapes, fingerling potatoes come in various colors and are renowned for their flavorful profiles. 

When selecting seed potatoes, make sure to choose certified disease-free tubers to minimize the risk of introducing pests and diseases to your garden. 

The first step when planting any new seed is to watch your weather forecast and to check for the last predicted frost date in your growing zone. You will want to aim to plant seed potatoes two to four weeks before the last expected frost date and when the day time temperatures have reached 60 degrees F. The weather can vary significantly this time of year, so utilizing season extenders such as row covers or cold frames can help protect young plants from unexpected cold snaps. The average growing season in Douglas County lasts from late April to early October, which provides ample time for potatoes to mature.

Next, you will want to prepare your soil. Whether you choose a nice-sized bucket (at least 18” wide and 3’ deep), a raised bed or straight into the ground, potatoes prefer well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. Potatoes prefer a slightly acidic soil pH of around 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, you can always bring a sample of your soil to your local Extension office to conduct a soil test to determine its pH and nutrient levels. To prepare your garden bed, break up any compacted areas, incorporate compost to improve fertility and drainage, and consider adding bone meal or a balanced fertilizer to provide phosphorus, which is crucial for root development. 

When you are ready to get them in the ground, you will space your seed potatoes about 12 inches apart in rows that are 2-3 feet apart and plant them about 4 inches deep. To maximize yields, you can utilize the “hilling” technique (this will work both in the ground and in containers). When the green tops reach about 6-8 inches in height, mound soil around the base of the plants to encourage more tuber growth and prevent greening and bruising. 

During the growing season, potatoes require consistent moisture and nutrients for optimal growth. Our area typically receives sufficient rainfall, but during dry spells, make sure the plants get about 1-2 inches of water per week. You can utilize drip irrigation to prevent evaporation and minimize disease risks. Feeding your potato plants can enhance yield and quality. You will want to use a high-potassium fertilizer or organic options like kelp meal or compost tea during the growing season. Be sure to avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as these can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of tuber formation. 

It’s essential to monitor your plants for common issues such as wire worms, cabbage maggots, and blight. Implementing crop rotation, using resistant varieties, and practicing good sanitation can help reduce pest populations and disease. If you notice signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves or wilting stems, remove affected plants promptly and dispose of them. Regularly inspecting your plants and maintaining optimal growing conditions will go a long way toward preventing disease outbreaks. 

Potatoes are typically ready to harvest when the plants begin to die back, usually around late summer to early autumn. Gently dig up the tubers, taking care not to damage them. It’s hard to believe, but potatoes can bruise as easily as an apple! Let the harvested potatoes cure in a cool, dark place for a few days to help toughen their skins and improve storage longevity. Store your potatoes in dark, cool, and well-ventilated areas to maximize their shelf life. With proper care, homegrown potatoes can last for several months. 

Growing potatoes can be a gratifying experience that yields delicious results. With proper soil preparation, variety selection, and diligent care, you can easily cultivate a healthy crop of potatoes right in your own backyard. 

Do you have a gardening or insect question? Contact the Douglas County Master Gardeners at douglasmg@oregonstate.edu or 541-672-4461 or visit 1134 SE Douglas Ave., Roseburg. Douglas County Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who help the OSU Extension Service serve the people of Douglas County.