The first thing to be accomplished is deciding what type(s) of potatoes you would like to grow. Small reds, deep blues, small fingerlings, or everyday russets/baking potatoes all are excellent choices. It might be interesting and exciting to have a crop that is not heavily represented at your local grocer, so take your time and choose wisely. Acquire the appropriate seeds from your local lawn and garden supplier and begin scouting out your area for planting. It is good to start your planting in the early spring, about the time the soil becomes most fertile and workable. If you have a tiller, it would be most helpful in turning the soil over, but a simple shovel, pitchfork, hoe, and a strong back can do the job nicely. Work the soil fully, turning it over again and again, allowing the precious oxygen to circulate and nutrients to be evenly spread throughout. Using organic soil enhancers from your local gardening shop can help your soil achieve a more fertile state, so incorporate it deeply within the soil as well. Straight manure is not advisable, because it is a leading cause of scab, a disease found in growing potatoes. Add water from your garden hose reel sparingly, you do not want to waterlog the soil your potatoes are in because it can cause potato rot. Before planting your seeds, you need to let them begin sprouting in a dry, warm spot at about 60 to 70 degrees for several weeks. Making sure that your potatoes have sprouted, remove them from the warm area and plant them in a mound of dirt and cover just the seed part with soil leaving a protective mound around each potato seedling. When the plants have grown to about six or seven inches in height, you will be able to add more dirt around the plant. Make sure to check the soil often and water your budding spuds when necessary.
With attentive care, the right amount of water, and sunshine, your potatoes will be ready for your dinner table before you know it!
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