Essential Guide to Growing Potatoes in the UK

Potatoes are one of the most versatile and beloved vegetables in the UK, and there's nothing quite like the taste of a home-grown spud. With just a little bit of know-how, you can cultivate a bountiful crop right in your backyard. Here’s your essential guide to growing potatoes in the UK from Allotmate Essentials.

Choose the Right Variety

Firstly, decide on the type of potato you want to grow. In the UK, there are three main categories of potatoes based on their growing period: first earlies, second earlies, and maincrop. First earlies are quick-growing, with a small, tender crop ready around June, while maincrop varieties are harvested in late summer or early autumn and can be stored for winter use.

Getting Started: Chitting

Before planting, your seed potatoes should undergo 'chitting'. This process involves encouraging the seed potatoes to sprout before planting. Approximately six weeks before planting, place your seed potatoes in egg cartons with the end that has the most eyes facing up. Keep them in a cool, light place to encourage strong sturdy shoots to grow.

Planting Time and Conditions

Potato planting time is from March to early May, depending on the variety and local climate conditions. It is important to plant after the risk of frost has passed. Potatoes prefer a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil. Prepare the ground in advance by turning over the soil and adding some compost or well-rotted manure to ensure rich nutrients for your crop.

Planting Technique

Dig a trench about 5 inches deep and plant the seed potatoes with the shoots facing upwards, about 12 inches apart for earlies and 15 inches for maincrop varieties. Cover with soil and as the shoots emerge, continue to 'earth up' by piling more soil around the stems to protect the developing tubers from light.

Care and Cultivation

Potatoes need regular watering, especially during dry spells, to encourage even growth. Avoid waterlogging as this can lead to rot. Keep an eye out for pests like slugs and diseases such as potato blight, and take action as needed. Earthing up and mulching can help reduce the risk of pests and diseases.

 
Follow these tips and you should have a bountiful crop of your favourite type of potato!

Want to know more about pests and doses to watch out for? Check out our blog post tomorrow.