How To Plant Potatoes In Container [ Full Guide ]

August 18, 2023
/ Planting Tips

Potatoes are a versatile and beloved crop that can be grown successfully in containers, making them an excellent choice for gardeners with limited space or those looking to try their hand at container gardening. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of planting potatoes in a container, from choosing the right container and selecting the best potato varieties to preparing the container for planting and ensuring a successful harvest.

Quick Answer: How To Plant Potatoes In A Container

If you’re looking for a quick overview of the process, here’s a condensed guide to planting potatoes in a container:

Choose a large container: Select a container that is at least 16 inches deep and 16-20 inches in diameter to provide ample space for the potatoes to grow.
Select the right soil: Use a well-draining, loose soil mix with added compost or organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients for the potatoes.
Choose the potato variety: Select a compact, early-maturing potato variety suitable for container growing, such as Yukon Gold or Red Norland.
Prepare the container: Fill the container with a few inches of soil, then place the seed potatoes on top and cover them with additional soil. Water thoroughly.
Care and maintenance: As the potato plants grow, continue to add more soil around the stems to encourage tuber development. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide adequate sunlight.
Harvesting: Once the plants have flowered and begun to die back, it’s time to harvest the potatoes. Gently dig around the plant to reveal your homegrown potatoes.

This quick guide provides a snapshot of the process, but for a more detailed understanding of each step, read on for a comprehensive overview of planting potatoes in a container.

Choosing The Right Container For Potato Planting

Selecting the right container is crucial for successfully growing potatoes in a confined space. When choosing a container for potato planting, keep the following factors in mind:

Size And Depth

Potatoes require ample space to develop a healthy root system and produce a bountiful harvest. The container’s depth is particularly important as it allows the tubers to grow downward without limitations. A container that is at least 16 inches deep and 16-20 inches in diameter is ideal for accommodating the potato plants as they grow.

Material

Containers for growing potatoes can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, ceramic, fabric, or wood. Each material has its advantages, and the choice may depend on personal preference, aesthetics, and climate. Plastic containers are durable, lightweight, and retain moisture well. Fabric containers provide excellent aeration and drainage, while wooden containers offer a natural and rustic appeal. Ultimately, the primary consideration should be the container’s ability to provide adequate drainage, prevent waterlogging, and retain moisture for the potato plants.

Drainage Holes

Proper drainage is essential for preventing waterlogged soil, which can lead to rot and disease in potato plants. Ensure that the chosen container has drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape. If the container lacks drainage holes, it is essential to drill or create openings to facilitate proper drainage.

Mobility And Placement

Consider the mobility and placement of the container, especially if you live in a region with fluctuating temperatures or unpredictable weather. Containers with built-in wheels or handles can be easily moved to optimize sunlight exposure or protect the plants from extreme conditions.

Selecting The Best Potato Varieties For Container Growing

Choosing the right potato variety is essential for successful container gardening. When growing potatoes in a container, opt for compact or small-space varieties that are suitable for confined growing conditions. Additionally, early-maturing varieties are favorable for container planting as they complete their growth cycle relatively quickly, allowing for a timely harvest.

Compact Varieties

Select potato varieties that have a compact growth habit, as they are better suited for the restricted space of a container. Compact varieties tend to produce smaller, more manageable plants while still yielding a satisfying crop of potatoes. Some recommended compact varieties for container growing include:

Yukon Gold: Known for its buttery flavor and versatile culinary uses, Yukon Gold is a popular choice for container gardening due to its compact growth and early maturity.
Red Norland: With its red skin and creamy texture, Red Norland is a reliable choice for container planting, producing uniform, round tubers that are ideal for boiling, roasting, or salads.

Early-Maturing Varieties

Potato varieties that mature quickly are well-suited for container gardening, allowing you to enjoy a relatively swift harvest within the limited confines of a container. Early-maturing varieties also tend to be more adaptable to fluctuating weather conditions and offer a rewarding gardening experience for beginners. Some recommended early-maturing potato varieties for container planting include:

Russian Banana Fingerling: This heirloom variety boasts a unique elongated shape and a buttery, nutty flavor. It matures early and is well-suited for containers due to its compact growth habit.
French Fingerling: Known for its distinct flavor and attractive pink skin, the French Fingerling is an early-maturing variety that thrives in containers, offering a gourmet addition to homegrown culinary creations.

By selecting compact, early-maturing potato varieties, you can ensure a successful and rewarding container gardening experience while enjoying a harvest of flavorful, homegrown potatoes.

Preparing The Container For Planting

Once you’ve chosen the right container and selected your preferred potato variety, it’s time to prepare the container for planting. Proper preparation ensures that the potato plants have a healthy and supportive environment for growth and development.

Soil Mix

Select a well-draining, loose soil mix that provides proper aeration and moisture retention for the potato plants. A recommended soil mix for container potato planting consists of a combination of potting soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage and prevent compaction. This soil mix should foster a healthy root system and provide the essential nutrients for vigorous potato growth.

Positioning

Place the container in a location that receives ample sunlight, ideally 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Adequate sunlight is crucial for the photosynthesis process and promoting robust plant growth. Consider the microclimate of your outdoor space, as well as the container’s mobility, when choosing the placement to ensure the potato plants receive the necessary sunlight.

Planting Process

Chitting the Seed Potatoes: Before planting, allow the seed potatoes to sprout or "chit" by placing them in a warm, bright location for a few weeks. This encourages the development of sturdy sprouts, which contribute to faster and more uniform growth when planted.
Layering the Soil: Add a few inches of the prepared soil mix to the bottom of the container. This initial layer provides a base for the seed potatoes and facilitates the establishment of their root systems.
Planting the Seed Potatoes: Place the chitted seed potatoes on top of the soil layer, spacing them evenly and ensuring that each seed potato has ample room to grow without crowding. For a standard 16-20 inch diameter container, plant 3-4 seed potatoes to allow for proper development and spacing.
Covering with Soil: Gently cover the seed potatoes with 3-4 inches of the soil mix, ensuring they are completely submerged and surrounded by the loose, nutrient-rich soil. This layer provides the initial support and protection for the emerging potato plants.
Watering Thoroughly: After planting, water the container thoroughly to ensure that the soil is evenly moist. Adequate moisture at the early stages of growth supports the germination of the seed potatoes and encourages the development of robust sprouts.

Care And Maintenance Of Container-Grown Potatoes

Successfully growing potatoes in a container requires ongoing care and maintenance to ensure optimal growth, prevent common issues, and promote a abundant harvest. The following practices and tips will guide you through the process of nurturing your container-grown potato plants from planting to harvest.

Soil Additions

As the potato plants begin to grow and develop, it’s essential to provide additional soil to support the emergence and growth of the tubers. This process, known as hilling, involves adding more soil around the stems of the potato plants to encourage the formation of additional tubers along the stems and prevent the exposed tubers from turning green.

Watering Schedule

Consistent and adequate watering is crucial for the health and productivity of container-grown potatoes. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, as overly wet conditions can lead to rot and disease. Monitor the moisture levels regularly, especially during warmer weather, and adjust the watering schedule as needed to prevent the soil from drying out completely.

Fertilization

Supplementing the soil with a balanced fertilizer or organic compost can provide essential nutrients to support strong, healthy potato growth. Consider using a slow-release granular fertilizer or incorporating compost into the soil mix to ensure a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season.

Protection From Extreme Temperatures

Container-grown potatoes are more susceptible to fluctuations in temperature, especially in regions with hot summers or cold winters. Consider using insulating materials or protective covers to shield the containers from excessive heat, which can cause the soil to dry out quickly, or from freezing temperatures, which can damage or kill the potato plants.

Pest And Disease Management

Regular monitoring for pests and diseases is crucial for preserving the health of container-grown potato plants. Common pests such as aphids, potato beetles, and mites can pose a threat to the plants and should be addressed using organic pest control methods or insecticidal soaps. Additionally, practicing crop rotation and inspecting the plants for signs of disease can help prevent and mitigate potential issues.

Sunlight Exposure

Ensure that the container-grown potato plants receive sufficient sunlight throughout the day to support healthy growth and tuber development. If necessary, reposition the containers to maximize sunlight exposure and prevent the plants from becoming shaded by surrounding structures or vegetation.

Mulching

Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around the base of the potato plants can help regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weed growth. Mulching also provides a protective barrier for the developing tubers, reducing the likelihood of exposure to sunlight and potential greening.

Harvesting Container-Grown Potatoes

As the potato plants mature and complete their growth cycle, it’s time to reap the rewards of your container gardening efforts by harvesting the homegrown potatoes. The following steps will guide you through the process of harvesting and enjoying a bountiful yield from your container-grown potato plants.

Monitoring Plant Progress: Keep an eye on the progression of the potato plants as they grow and develop. Look for signs of maturity, such as yellowing foliage and withering stems, which indicate that the tubers are ready for harvest.
Harvest Timing: Most potato varieties are ready to harvest approximately 70-90 days after planting, though specific timing may vary based on the variety and growing conditions. Early-maturing varieties may be ready for harvest closer to the 70-day mark, while other varieties may require a longer growing period.
Flower and Foliage Inspection: When the potato plants begin to flower and the foliage starts to die back, it’s a signal that the tubers have reached maturity. However, it’s important to avoid harvesting immediately after flowering, as the tubers continue to develop and reach their full size in the following weeks.
Gently Digging Up the Potatoes: Carefully loosen the soil around the base of the potato plants using a garden fork or trowel. Be cautious not to damage the tubers as you lift them from the soil. Harvest gently to avoid bruising or puncturing the potatoes, which can reduce their storage life.
Curing and Storage: Once harvested, allow the freshly dug potatoes to dry and cure in a cool, well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks. This curing process helps toughen the skin and enhance the flavor of the potatoes. After curing, store the potatoes in a cool, dark location with moderate humidity to preserve their quality for an extended period.

By following these steps, you can successfully harvest your container-grown potatoes and enjoy the satisfaction of homegrown produce with exceptional flavor and freshness.

Planting potatoes in a container offers an accessible and gratifying gardening experience, allowing you to cultivate a bountiful harvest of flavorful tubers even in limited outdoor spaces. By selecting the right container, choosing suitable potato varieties, preparing the container for planting, and providing diligent care and maintenance, you can achieve a successful and rewarding potato-growing venture. Whether you’re a novice gardener exploring container gardening for the first time or a seasoned enthusiast seeking a space-efficient growing method, planting potatoes in a container invites you to experience the joy of nurturing and harvesting your own fresh, homegrown potatoes.

Planting Seed Potatoes: Step-by-step Instructions

Potatoes are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be easily grown in containers, making them an ideal choice for urban gardeners or those with limited space. Container gardening offers several advantages, such as better control over soil quality, reduced weed competition, and the ability to move the containers to maximize sunlight exposure.

Choose the Right Container: Selecting the right container is crucial for successful potato growth. Opt for a container that is at least 2 feet deep, as the potatoes need enough space for their roots to develop. The container should also have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Options like plastic or terracotta pots, grow bags, or even repurposed containers can all work well for growing potatoes.
Prepare the Container: Before planting, clean and sanitize the container to prevent the spread of diseases. Use a mixture of water and bleach (1:9 ratio) or a mild soapy solution to wash the container thoroughly. Rinse it well and allow it to air dry.
Choose the Right Seed Potatoes: Select seed potatoes that are certified disease-free and suitable for container growing. You can purchase seed potatoes from nurseries or online suppliers. Prioritize disease-resistant varieties to minimize the risk of common potato diseases. Avoid using supermarket potatoes as they may be treated to prevent sprouting.
Chit the Seed Potatoes: Chitting is the process of allowing the seed potatoes to sprout before planting. Place the seed potatoes in a cool, bright location with an average temperature of around 50-60°F (10-15°C). Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring that the side with the most eyes is facing up. Allow the potatoes to sprout for about 4-6 weeks. Chitting helps in the early development of shoots, enabling the potatoes to grow faster once planted.
Prepare the Soil Mix: Potatoes thrive in loose, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Create a soil mix by combining equal parts of potting soil, compost, and coconut coir or peat moss. This mixture provides excellent drainage and adequate moisture retention while promoting nutrient availability.
Plant the Potatoes: Fill the container with the prepared soil mix, leaving about 6 inches of space from the top. Take the chitted potatoes and plant them in the soil with the sprouts facing up. Space the potatoes about 10-12 inches apart and ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the container. Cover the potatoes with around 4 inches of soil.
Water the Potatoes: After planting, thoroughly water the container until the soil is evenly moist. This initial watering helps settle the soil around the potatoes and encourages root development. In the following weeks, water the potatoes regularly, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Provide Proper Sunlight: Place the container in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Potatoes need ample sunlight to grow and produce a good harvest. If necessary, you can move the container to different spots throughout the day to maximize sunlight exposure.

Caring For Potato Plants In Containers

Hilling: As your potato plants grow, they will develop long stems and small leaves. To promote tuber formation, it is essential to encourage upward growth by hilling the soil around the stems. When the plants reach a height of about 6 inches, gently mound soil around them, leaving the top leaves uncovered. Repeat this hilling process every few weeks as the stems grow taller. Hilling provides space for new tubers to form and protects them from sunlight, preventing greening.
Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch around the potato plants helps maintain soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and moderate soil temperature. Once the plants have emerged, spread 2-3 inches of straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips around the base of the plants, avoiding direct contact with the stems. Mulching conserves water, reduces the need for frequent watering, and prevents evaporation from the soil surface.
Pruning: Potatoes occasionally produce side shoots, also known as suckers or volunteer potatoes, that compete for nutrients and space. To prevent overcrowding and divert energy towards the main stem, regularly check for and remove any side shoots that appear. Gently snap off the side shoots at ground level, being careful not to damage the main stem or roots.
Staking: As the potato plants grow taller, they can become top-heavy, risking stunted growth, bending, or even total collapse. Staking provides support to the plants, keeping them upright and preventing potential damage. Install stakes or tomato cages around the container and tie soft twine or garden tape gently to the stems to secure them. Staking becomes especially important if you live in a windy area or if you are growing tall varieties.

Watering And Fertilizing Container-grown Potatoes

Watering: Proper watering is crucial for the successful cultivation of potatoes in containers. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not overly saturated. Check the moisture level by inserting your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water. Water deeply and evenly, ensuring that the water reaches the roots. Avoid overhead watering, as it can lead to diseases. Instead, water directly at the soil level.
Fertilizing: Potatoes are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Start by incorporating a slow-release granular fertilizer into the soil during planting. Additionally, apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks to provide the plants with a constant supply of nutrients. High-potassium fertilizers are especially beneficial for promoting tuber development. Follow the package instructions for application rates and frequency.
Avoid Excess Nitrogen: While potatoes require a sufficient amount of nitrogen for healthy foliage growth, excessive nitrogen can lead to an abundance of lush foliage at the expense of tuber development. Excess nitrogen can also make the plants more susceptible to pests and diseases. Therefore, prioritize phosphorus and potassium-rich fertilizers for enhanced tuber formation and limit the use of nitrogen-heavy fertilizers.

Dealing With Pests And Diseases In Container Potato Gardening

Common Pests: Container-grown potatoes can still fall victim to various pests. Keep a close eye on your plants for signs of pests, such as aphids, potato beetles, or slugs. If you find any infestations, promptly take action to prevent further damage. Use organic methods like handpicking pests, applying neem oil or insecticidal soap sprays, or using diatomaceous earth to deter crawling insects. For severe infestations, consider using appropriate organic pesticides as a last resort.
Common Diseases: Certain diseases can affect potato plants, leading to reduced yield or plant death. Common diseases include late blight, early blight, scab, and powdery mildew. To minimize the risk of disease, always use certified disease-free seed potatoes. Additionally, practice good sanitation by removing any infected plant material promptly. Proper air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and spacing the potato plants adequately can also help prevent disease development. If you notice signs of disease, apply organic fungicides as directed to control the spread.

Growing potatoes in containers is an excellent way to enjoy a homegrown harvest, even in small spaces. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully plant potatoes in containers and care for them throughout the growing season. Remember to select the right container, choose disease-free seed potatoes, provide optimal sunlight exposure, water and fertilize appropriately, and address any pest or disease issues promptly. With proper care and attention, you can look forward to a bountiful harvest of freshly grown potatoes from your container garden.

Harvesting Potatoes From Containers

Before jumping into the details of planting potatoes in containers, it’s essential to understand some basic concepts. Potatoes are part of the Solanaceae or nightshade family. There are various potato varieties available, each with its unique characteristics in terms of size, shape, and taste.

When it comes to container gardening, it is crucial to select the right type of container. Ideally, choose a container that is at least 16 inches deep to accommodate the potato plants’ root systems properly. As for the size, it should be large enough to allow for plant growth and the necessary soil volume. A container with a capacity of approximately 10-15 gallons will suffice for growing three to five potato plants.

One of the most exciting parts of potato gardening is harvesting your crop. When growing potatoes in containers, you can harvest them as soon as they are ready, which usually occurs around two to three weeks after the plants have flowered. Here’s how you can do it:

Start by gently moving the soil around the base of the plant using your hands or a small garden fork to locate the potatoes. Be careful not to damage the tubers during this process.
Once you have located the potatoes, slowly lift them out of the container. You may need to dig a little deeper to ensure you get all the potatoes.
If you are growing multiple potato plants in the same container, it is best to harvest them one at a time, starting with the largest plant first.

Storing Potatoes After Harvest

After harvesting your potatoes, it’s important to store them properly to ensure their longevity and quality. Here are some tips to help you store potatoes after harvest:

Cure the potatoes: Lay them out in a single layer in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, at a temperature of around 60-65°F (15-18°C). Allow them to cure for about two weeks to toughen the skins and heal any minor injuries.
Store in a cool, dark place: Once the potatoes are cured, transfer them to a cool, dark place with good air circulation. A basement, cellar, or garage works well for this purpose. Keep the temperature between 35-40°F (2-4°C) to prevent sprouting and decay.
Avoid moisture and light exposure: Potatoes should be stored in a dry environment to prevent rotting. Additionally, exposure to light can cause potatoes to turn green, which produces a toxic compound called solanine. Use breathable containers such as burlap bags or wire mesh baskets to store your potatoes.
Regularly check for spoilage: Inspect your stored potatoes regularly and remove any that show signs of decay or sprouting. Removing spoiled potatoes helps prevent the spread of disease and ensures the rest of your harvest remains intact.

Tips For Successful Potato Container Gardening

To ensure a successful potato harvest from containers, follow these tips:

Select the right variety: Choose potato varieties that are suitable for container gardening. Some recommended varieties include Yukon Gold, Red Pontiac, and Caribe, as they tend to perform well in containers.
Chit or pre-sprout the potatoes: Before planting, consider chitting or pre-sprouting your potatoes. This involves placing them in a cool, bright location for a few weeks to encourage sprouting. This can give your plants a head start and lead to earlier and more vigorous growth.
Use high-quality potting soil: Potatoes require loose, well-draining soil for optimal growth. Use a high-quality potting mix or create your own blend using equal parts compost, peat moss, and vermiculite or perlite. Avoid using traditional garden soil, as it may become compacted or retain too much moisture.
Add organic matter: Amend your potting soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve its nutrient content and water retention. This will promote healthy plant growth and a bountiful potato harvest.
Provide adequate drainage: Ensure that your container has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Poor drainage can lead to waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot and other issues.
Planting depth: Place the seed potatoes in the container about 4-6 inches deep. As the plants grow, continually add more soil to cover the stems until only the top few inches are exposed. This encourages the development of more tubers along the buried stems, resulting in a higher potato yield.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Water thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Be careful not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to rot or other fungal diseases.
Provide adequate sunlight: Potatoes need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Place your container in a sunny location, such as a patio or a balcony, to ensure optimal growth.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer when planting and continue to feed the plants throughout the growing season. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of tuber development.
Pest and disease control: Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids, Colorado potato beetles, and potato tuberworms. Monitor your plants regularly and take appropriate steps, such as hand-picking or applying organic pest control measures, to prevent infestations. Ensure good airflow around your plants to minimize the risk of fungal diseases such as blight.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Planting Potatoes In Containers

While potato container gardening is relatively straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can impact your potato harvest. Here are some things to avoid:

Crowding the container: Planting too many potato plants in a single container can lead to overcrowding, which in turn reduces yields. Be mindful of the size of the container and the needs of the potato plants, allowing enough space for each plant to thrive.
Using the wrong container: Avoid using containers without drainage holes or those made of materials that could leach harmful chemicals into the soil. Choose pots specifically designed for gardening, ensuring they are suitable for growing edibles.
Neglecting watering needs: Inconsistent or inadequate watering can result in stunted growth, cracked tubers, or even complete crop failure. Check the moisture levels frequently and adjust your watering routine accordingly to keep the soil consistently moist.
Overlooking pest and disease management: Failing to monitor and control pests and diseases can quickly devastate your potato crop. Regularly inspect your plants, be vigilant for signs of trouble, and take appropriate action when necessary.
Harvesting too early: It can be tempting to harvest potatoes as soon as you see them forming, but premature harvesting can result in smaller tubers. Be patient and wait until the plants have flowered and your potatoes have reached their optimal size before harvesting.

Conclusion

Growing potatoes in containers is an excellent way to enjoy a homegrown harvest, even if you have limited space or poor soil quality. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully plant potatoes in containers and enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, delicious tubers.

Remember to choose the right container, select suitable potato varieties, use quality potting soil, provide proper drainage and sunlight, water and fertilize consistently, and monitor for pests and diseases. With proper care and attention, you’ll be rewarded with a successful potato container garden and the satisfaction of enjoying your very own homegrown potatoes. Happy gardening!

FAQS

What Type Of Container Should I Use For Planting Potatoes?

It is recommended to use a large container with a minimum depth of 12 inches and a diameter of at least 18 inches. This will provide enough space for the potatoes to grow and develop their roots.

When Should I Start Planting Potatoes In A Container?

You can start planting potatoes in a container as soon as the threat of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up, usually in early spring. It is important to plant them at the right time to ensure a successful harvest.

What Kind Of Soil Should I Use For Planting Potatoes In A Container?

Potatoes grow best in a well-draining, loose soil with a pH level between 5.0 and 6.5. You can use a mix of potting soil and compost or a specialized potato growing mix. Avoid using garden soil as it may contain pests and diseases that can harm the potatoes.

How Many Potato Plants Can I Grow In One Container?

The number of potato plants you can grow in a container will depend on the size of the container. As a general rule, you should space your potato plants about 6 inches apart. For a 12-inch deep container, you can grow 3-4 plants. For a 18-inch deep container, you can grow 6-8 plants.

Do Potato Plants Need A Lot Of Sunlight?

Yes, potato plants need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Place your container in a sunny spot, like a south-facing window or balcony, to ensure that your potato plants get enough sunlight to grow and thrive. If you’re growing them indoors, you may need to supplement with artificial light.