How To Plant Seed Potatoes In Containers [ Full Guide ]

September 11, 2024
/ Planting Tips

Potatoes are a versatile and popular vegetable, and growing them in containers is a great option, especially for those with limited space. In this guide, we will discuss the step-by-step process of planting seed potatoes in containers. We will cover everything from selecting the right containers and preparing the soil to choosing the best seed potatoes and providing proper care for a successful harvest.

Quick Answer: How To Plant Seed Potatoes In Containers

Step 1: Select the right container: Choose a large container with drainage holes, such as a fabric grow bag or a plastic or wooden container.

Step 2: Prepare the container: Fill the container with a well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix, leaving enough space for the seed potatoes.

Step 3: Select the seed potatoes: Choose certified disease-free seed potatoes and either plant whole small potatoes or cut larger ones into pieces with at least two eyes each.

Step 4: Planting: Place the seed potatoes in the container and cover them with soil. Water thoroughly.

Step 5: Care and maintenance: Provide regular watering, sunlight, and fertilizer. As the plants grow, add more soil to cover the stems, also known as "hilling."

Step 6: Harvesting: Harvest the potatoes once the plants have flowered and the foliage begins to yellow and die back.

Types Of Containers For Seed Potatoes: Selecting The Right Container

When it comes to planting seed potatoes in containers, choosing the right container is essential for the success of your potato crop. Here are some popular types of containers suitable for growing seed potatoes:

Fabric Grow Bags

Fabric grow bags are a popular choice for growing potatoes as they provide excellent drainage and aeration for the roots. These bags are also space-saving and can be easily moved around to optimize sunlight exposure. When selecting a fabric grow bag, look for a size that allows for ample soil depth, at least 12 inches, to promote healthy root development.

Plastic Or Wooden Containers

Plastic or wooden containers are a more traditional option for growing seed potatoes. They come in various sizes, allowing you to choose the most suitable container based on the number of seed potatoes you plan to grow. Ensure that the containers have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to rotting of the tubers.

Recycled Materials

You can get creative and repurpose items such as buckets, barrels, or large plastic pots as containers for planting seed potatoes. When using recycled materials, make sure to drill drainage holes at the bottom to ensure proper water drainage and prevent waterlogged soil.

Selecting the right container is crucial for facilitating healthy root growth and ensuring proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to rotting of the potatoes.

Preparing The Container: Soil And Fertilizers

Soil Preparation

When preparing the container for planting, it’s crucial to use a well-draining, lightweight potting mix that provides good aeration and drainage for the roots. Avoid using heavy garden soil, as it can lead to poor drainage and hinder root development.

A recommended potting mix for planting seed potatoes in containers consists of a blend of high-quality potting soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage and aeration. Additionally, adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure helps provide essential nutrients for healthy plant growth.

To prepare the container, follow these steps:

Fill the bottom of the container with a layer of the prepared potting mix, leaving enough space to accommodate the seed potatoes.
As the potato plant grows, gradually add more potting mix to cover the stems and promote the development of additional tubers along the buried portion of the stem, a method known as "hilling."

Fertilizers

Potatoes are heavy feeders and benefit from a nutrient-rich growing medium. Before planting the seed potatoes, consider incorporating a balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer into the potting mix to provide a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season.

Alternatively, you can top dress the soil with organic fertilizer or compost during the growing period to ensure that the plants receive essential nutrients. Be mindful of the fertilizer’s nitrogen content, as excessive nitrogen can lead to lush foliage growth at the expense of tuber development.

Choosing The Right Seed Potatoes: Varieties And Sizes

Certified Seed Potatoes

When selecting seed potatoes, it is crucial to choose certified disease-free seed potatoes from a reputable source to minimize the risk of introducing diseases to your potato crop. Certified seed potatoes undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are free from common potato diseases, such as potato scab, bacterial soft rot, and potato virus.

Varieties

There are various potato varieties suited for container cultivation, each with its unique flavor, texture, and cooking qualities. Popular container-friendly potato varieties include:

Yukon Gold: Known for its buttery flavor and creamy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes are versatile and suitable for boiling, baking, and mashing.
Red Norland: These early-maturing potatoes feature smooth, thin red skin and moist, white flesh, making them excellent for boiling and roasting.
Russet: Known for their high starch content, Russet potatoes are ideal for baking, frying, and making mashed potatoes.

Choose potato varieties based on your culinary preferences and the intended use of the harvested potatoes.

Seed Potato Sizes

When it comes to planting seed potatoes in containers, the size of the seed potatoes plays a key role in determining the yield and harvest time. Here are the two primary methods for planting seed potatoes:

Planting Whole Small Potatoes

For small potatoes roughly the size of a golf ball, you can plant them whole without the need for cutting. Planting whole small potatoes simplifies the planting process and ensures that each potato piece has multiple eyes for sprouting.

Cutting Larger Seed Potatoes

When dealing with larger seed potatoes, it is common practice to cut them into pieces before planting. Each seed potato piece should be roughly the size of a golf ball and contain at least two eyes, which are the small indentations on the potato’s surface where new shoots will emerge.

Growing seed potatoes in containers is a rewarding endeavor that offers the flexibility to cultivate fresh potatoes even in limited garden spaces. By selecting the right containers, preparing the soil with appropriate fertilizers, choosing certified disease-free seed potatoes, and following proper planting techniques, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of homegrown potatoes. With careful attention to watering, sunlight exposure, and maintenance, you can look forward to harvesting and savoring your own delicious, freshly grown potatoes. Happy gardening!

Preparing The Seed Potatoes: Cutting Vs. Planting Whole

Growing your own potatoes can be a rewarding and satisfying experience, even if you have limited space. One way to maximize your potato harvest is by planting seed potatoes in containers. Container gardening allows you to have control over the soil quality, watering, and exposure to sunlight.

Before planting your seed potatoes, it’s important to ensure they are in good condition and adequately prepared. There are two main ways to prepare seed potatoes for planting: cutting them into pieces or planting them whole.

Cutting the Seed Potatoes:

Cutting the seed potatoes into smaller pieces can help maximize the number of plants you can grow and increase your overall yield. Each piece should have at least one "eye," which is a dormant bud that will sprout and grow into a new plant. To cut the seed potatoes, follow these steps:

Select healthy seed potatoes: Choose seed potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from any signs of rot or disease.
Prepare a clean, sharp knife: Use a clean and sharp knife to minimize the risk of introducing infections to the seed potatoes.
Cut the potatoes into pieces: Cut the seed potatoes into 1-2 inch (2.5-5 cm) pieces, ensuring that each piece has at least one eye. Avoid creating very small pieces, as they may not have enough energy reserves to sustain growth.
Allow the cut pieces to dry: After cutting, allow the pieces to dry for a day or two. This will create a protective layer over the cut surface, reducing the risk of rotting when planted.

Planting Whole Seed Potatoes:

If you prefer not to cut the seed potatoes, you can also plant them whole. This method simplifies the preparation process and minimizes the risk of introducing infections through cuts. Here’s how to plant whole seed potatoes:

Select healthy seed potatoes: Choose firm, smooth, and disease-free seed potatoes, just like when cutting them into pieces.
Leave smaller potatoes whole: If you have smaller seed potatoes (about the size of a golf ball or smaller), you can plant them whole without the need for cutting.
Prepare larger seed potatoes: If the seed potatoes are larger than a golf ball, gently press them with your hands to slightly flatten the sides. This will help stimulate the growth of multiple eyes and increase the number of sprouts.

No matter which method you choose, make sure to give the seed potatoes a week or two to sprout before planting. Place them in a cool, well-lit area, away from direct sunlight, to encourage the development of sprouts.

Planting Basics: Timing And Depth

Once your seed potatoes have sprouted, it’s time to plant them in containers. There are a few key factors to consider when it comes to the timing and depth of planting.

Timing:

Potatoes are a cool-season crop, and the ideal time to plant them is typically when the soil temperature reaches around 45 to 55°F (7 to 13°C). Planting too early, when the soil is too cold, can lead to slow germination or rotting. On the other hand, planting too late in the season may not give the potatoes enough time to mature before frost sets in.

As a general guideline, aim to plant seed potatoes about 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost in your area. You can check with your local agricultural extension office or consult a gardening calendar to determine the approximate date for your region.

Choosing the Right Containers:

When it comes to choosing containers for planting potatoes, there are a few important considerations. The containers should be large enough to accommodate the growth of the potato plants and should have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Additionally, using dark-colored containers can help retain heat and promote root development.

Commonly used containers for potato cultivation include:

Fabric grow bags: These bags are made from breathable fabric, allowing for excellent aeration and drainage.
Plastic or clay pots: These containers are widely available and come in various sizes. Look for pots with drainage holes at the bottom.
Wooden boxes or barrels: These containers can provide a classic and rustic look to your potato garden. Make sure to drill drainage holes if they are not already present.
Trash cans or buckets: These can be repurposed containers and are suitable for smaller potato varieties. Drill drainage holes in the bottom before using them.

Planting Depth:

The depth at which you plant your seed potatoes will depend on the size of the container and the variety of potatoes you’re planting. As a general rule of thumb, larger containers require deeper planting.

For containers that are at least 12 inches (30 cm) deep, plant your seed potatoes about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) deep. If you’re planting in shallow containers, such as grow bags, aim for a depth of around 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm).

To plant the seed potatoes, follow these steps:

Fill the container with a loose and well-draining potting mix. Avoid using garden soil, as it may contain pests or diseases.
Place the seed potatoes in the container, with the sprouts facing upwards. If you are planting larger pieces, make sure the cut side is facing down.
Space the seed potatoes evenly, with about 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) between each potato. This spacing allows room for the development of roots and prevents overcrowding.
Cover the seed potatoes with soil, leaving a small depression on top to collect water when watering.

Watering And Drainage: How To Care For Your Container Plants

Proper watering and drainage are essential for the success of your potato plants. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause stunted growth and low yield. Here are some tips to ensure your container-grown potatoes receive adequate moisture and drainage:

Watering:

Potatoes require regular and consistent watering to promote healthy growth. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering will depend on various factors such as temperature, container size, and soil composition. As a general guideline, check the soil moisture level by sticking your finger about an inch (2.5 cm) deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.

Here are some watering tips for container-grown potatoes:

Water deeply: When watering, make sure to thoroughly wet the entire root zone. This encourages the roots to grow deeper in search of water and nutrients.
Water early in the day: Watering in the morning allows the plants to dry off during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
Avoid wetting the foliage: Direct the water towards the base of the plants rather than spraying the leaves. Wet foliage increases the chances of disease development.

Drainage:

Good drainage is crucial for container-grown potatoes. Poor drainage can lead to waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot and other issues. Follow these tips to ensure proper drainage:

Use well-draining potting mix: Choose a lightweight potting mix that contains ingredients like perlite, vermiculite, or coarse sand. These additives improve drainage and prevent compaction.
Add drainage holes: If your chosen container does not have drainage holes, drill several holes at the bottom. This allows excess water to flow out and prevents water from pooling at the roots.
Elevate the containers: Place the containers on pot feet or bricks to lift them off the ground. This allows excess water to drain more efficiently and prevents water from pooling around the roots.
Monitor the drainage: Regularly check the drainage holes to ensure they are not clogged. If you notice poor drainage, consider repotting the plants into a container with better drainage.

Feeding Your Seed Potatoes: Managing Nutrients

In order to grow healthy and productive potato plants, it’s important to provide them with the right nutrients. While container-grown potatoes will receive some nutrients from the potting mix, regular fertilization is necessary to ensure optimal growth. Here’s how to manage the nutrient requirements of your seed potatoes:

Choosing the Right Fertilizer:

When choosing a fertilizer for your potato plants, look for one specifically formulated for vegetables or root crops. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) is ideal. Additionally, consider using organic fertilizers such as compost, well-rotted manure, or fish emulsion to provide a slow release of nutrients.

Fertilization Schedule:

Potatoes have different nutrient requirements at different stages of growth. Follow this fertilization schedule to meet their nutritional needs:

Before planting: Prior to planting your seed potatoes, mix in a slow-release organic fertilizer or compost into the potting mix. This will provide a baseline of nutrients for the plants.
During planting: You can also add a small amount of granular fertilizer or compost into the planting hole. This will give the plants an initial nutrient boost.
Early growth stage (3-4 weeks after planting): As the plants begin to grow, apply a balanced granular fertilizer according to the package instructions. This will help stimulate vegetative growth.
Mid-growth stage (6-8 weeks after planting): Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the active growth phase. This will provide a continual supply of nutrients as the plants develop.
Late growth stage (2-4 weeks before harvest): Reduce or stop fertilization at this stage to allow the plants to focus on developing mature tubers.

Additional Tips:

Here are a few additional tips to manage the nutrient requirements of your container-grown potatoes:

Avoid overfertilization: Excessive fertilizer can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced tuber production. Follow the recommended dosage on the fertilizer packaging and monitor the health of the plants.
Monitor the plant’s appearance: Pay attention to the color and overall health of the foliage. Yellowing leaves or stunted growth may indicate nutrient deficiencies or imbalances.
Soil testing: Consider conducting a soil test before planting your potatoes. This will help determine the nutrient levels in the potting mix and allow you to make any necessary adjustments.

Growing seed potatoes in containers is an excellent way to enjoy a bountiful harvest, even with limited gardening space. By following the steps outlined in this guide, from preparing the seed potatoes to caring for the plants throughout their growth cycle, you can successfully grow your own potatoes and enjoy the satisfaction of serving fresh, homegrown produce. Remember to provide proper watering and drainage, choose the right fertilizer, and pay attention to the overall health of the plants. With patience and care, your container-grown potatoes will reward you with a delicious and nutritious harvest.

Growing Seed Potatoes: Temperature And Light

Planting seed potatoes in containers is a great way to grow your own delicious and healthy potatoes, even if you don’t have a large garden or outdoor space. Container gardening allows you to take control of the growing conditions and reduces the risk of pests and diseases.

Potatoes require specific temperature and light conditions to grow and produce a bountiful harvest. Here are some important factors to consider when growing seed potatoes in containers:

Container And Soil Requirements

Selecting the right container is crucial for successful seed potato cultivation. Opt for a container that is at least 12 inches deep to allow room for the growth of the potato plant. The container should also have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

For soil, choose a well-draining potting mix that is loose, light, and rich in organic matter. Avoid using heavy garden soil or compacted mixtures, as they can hinder root development and lead to poor growth.

Seed Potatoes

Choose high-quality seed potatoes for planting. Seed potatoes are different from regular potatoes as they have not been treated to prevent sprouting and have a higher potential for producing healthy plants. You can find seed potatoes at garden centers or order them from reputable suppliers to ensure you’re getting disease-free varieties.

Before planting, it’s recommended to cut large seed potatoes into smaller pieces, making sure each piece has at least one "eye" (a small indentation where the sprout will emerge). Allow the cut pieces to dry for one to two days to reduce the risk of rotting.

Temperature Requirements

Potatoes prefer cool temperatures for their growth. The ideal temperature range for planting seed potatoes is 60-70°F (15-21°C). If the temperature exceeds 80°F (27°C), the growth of the potato plants can be stunted, and tuber development may be negatively affected. Therefore, it’s important to choose a suitable location for your container, such as a spot on your porch or patio that receives partial sun and stays relatively cool.

Light Requirements

Potatoes require at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. Place your containers in an area that receives plenty of sunlight throughout the day. If you don’t have access to a sunny spot, you can use artificial grow lights to supplement the lack of natural sunlight.

Common Problems And Solutions: Pest Control And Disease Prevention

While growing seed potatoes in containers reduces the risk of certain pests and diseases, it’s still important to be vigilant and take preventative measures to ensure a healthy crop. Here are some common problems you may encounter and their solutions:

Pest Control

Potato Beetles: These beetles can defoliate potato plants if left unchecked. Handpick them off plants and drop them into soapy water to eliminate them. Consider using row covers to protect plants from adult beetles.
Aphids: Aphids can damage plants by sucking sap and transmitting diseases. Spray plants with a strong blast of water to dislodge them. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings that feed on aphids.
Slugs and Snails: These slimy creatures can munch on potato leaves and tubers. Use organic pellets, copper tape, or beer traps to deter them.

Disease Prevention

Early Blight: This fungal disease causes dark spots on leaves and can reduce yield. Mulch around the plants to prevent soil splashing on foliage. Remove and destroy infected leaves. Apply fungicides if necessary.
Late Blight: Another fungal disease that affects foliage and tubers, causing them to rot. Remove and destroy infected plants immediately. Provide good air circulation to plants by spacing them adequately.
Verticillium Wilt: A soil-borne fungus that causes yellowing and wilting of leaves. Choose resistant potato varieties and practice crop rotation to reduce the risk. Avoid planting potatoes in areas with a history of the disease.

Harvesting And Storing Seed Potatoes

Harvesting seed potatoes from your containers is an exciting and rewarding step in the process. Here are some tips on when and how to harvest, as well as storing the harvested potatoes:

Knowing When to Harvest: Pay attention to the foliage and tubers to determine the best time for harvest. Once the plant’s foliage turns yellow and dies down, it indicates that the potatoes have reached maturity. Gently dig around the base of the plant to check for tuber size and skin firmness. Small "new" potatoes can be harvested earlier if desired.
Digging Out Potatoes: Use a garden fork or your hands to gently loosen the soil around the base of the plant. Start digging slightly away from the plant to avoid damaging the tubers. Carefully lift the plant, grabbing the stem near the base, as the tubers may still be attached to the roots. Shake the excess soil off the potatoes and handle them gently to prevent bruising.
Curing: After digging, let the potatoes cure for a few hours in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Curing helps to toughen the skin, making them last longer in storage.
Storing: Store the cured potatoes in a cool, dark, and humid-free environment. Avoid exposing them to light, which can cause them to develop a green color due to the formation of solanine, a toxic compound. An ideal storage temperature is around 40-45°F (4-7°C). Place the potatoes in well-ventilated containers, such as burlap sacks or open paper bags. Regularly check for any signs of rot or decay and remove any affected potatoes immediately to prevent the spread of spoilage.

Replanting Your Container: How To Use The Same Container Again

After harvesting your potatoes, you may be wondering if you can reuse the same container for planting another crop. The answer is yes! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare the container for replanting:

Clean the Container: Empty the remaining soil from the container and discard any plant debris. Rinse the container with water to remove any clinging soil particles. If the container is visibly dirty, use a mild detergent or bleach solution to clean it thoroughly. Rinse it again with clean water to remove any traces of cleaning products.
Soil Renewal: It’s beneficial to refresh the soil before planting a new crop in the same container. Remove the top 2-3 inches of old soil and replace it with fresh potting mix. This helps replenish nutrients and improve soil structure.
Fertilizer Application: Add a slow-release organic fertilizer to the container. Follow the package instructions for the recommended amount. Mixing the fertilizer with the fresh soil ensures that the new crop receives adequate nutrients throughout its growth.
Crop Rotation: To minimize the risk of diseases and pests, it’s essential to rotate crops in your containers. Avoid planting the same plant family in the container consecutively. For instance, if you planted potatoes in the container previously, consider planting a different crop, such as lettuce or tomatoes, the next time.

Conclusion

Planting seed potatoes in containers is an excellent way to enjoy homegrown potatoes even with limited space. By providing the right temperature and light conditions, minimizing pests and diseases, and following proper harvesting and storage techniques, you can successfully grow your own crop of delicious potatoes. Additionally, reusing the same container for replanting ensures sustainability and maximizes the use of your resources. So, start planting your seed potatoes in containers and enjoy the rewarding journey of growing your own fresh and nutritious spuds!

FAQS

What Type Of Container Should I Use For Planting Seed Potatoes?

It is best to use a large container with good drainage, such as a large pot or a half barrel. Make sure it is at least 12 inches deep and has drainage holes at the bottom.

What Type Of Soil Should I Use For Planting Seed Potatoes In Containers?

It is important to use well-draining soil that is loose and rich in organic matter. A mix of potting soil, compost, and perlite or vermiculite is ideal. Do not use garden soil, as it can become compacted and hinder the growth of potatoes.

When Should I Plant Seed Potatoes In Containers?

The best time to plant seed potatoes in containers is in late winter or early spring, when the soil has warmed up and the danger of frost has passed. You can also plant them in early fall if you live in a cooler climate.

How Do I Prepare The Seed Potatoes For Planting?

First, cut your seed potatoes into chunks that are about 2 inches in size, making sure each piece has at least one "eye" or bud. Then, let them sit at room temperature for a few days to form a callus, which will help prevent them from rotting when planted.

How Deep Should I Plant The Seed Potatoes In The Containers?

Plant your seed potatoes about 4-6 inches deep in the container, with the eyes facing up. As the plants grow, continue to cover the stems with soil, leaving only the top 2 inches exposed. This will encourage more potatoes to grow along the stem rather than just at the bottom of the container.