in a few words, We plant seed potatoes in “little hills,” Choose a sunny part of the field during late winter-spring (February-April in most regions) or during summer (July-August in most regions). 3-4 months after planting, We can usually harvest potatoes that are formed underground. after harvest, Plow the land deeply in order to destroy the remaining plants. In general, We should not plant potatoes in the same field for more than two years in a row, because the soil will run out, The risk of spreading diseases increases
We start by buying seed potatoes.
It’s a good idea to choose certified seed potatoes that are immune to disease from reputable sellers. The potato seed is actually an ordinary potato just like the one we eat. But they are chosen for desirable properties. They are also screened or sterilized against various diseases. Instead of that, We can grow the potatoes we bought from the grocer, But selection requires experience. We should expect much lower results in the final quantity and weight of potatoes produced. Most gardeners and farmers cut seed potatoes into small pieces (there are pros and cons to cutting potatoes). Make sure to leave at least one bud eye per cutting. In general we can cut the largest potato tubers (diameter> 45 mm), While the small tubers are cultivated whole. Leave the potato seeds in a dry place for two days. and then, We will usually be able to see a crust on the surface of the potato that we’ve cut. at this point, We are ready to plant it
Plowing deeply and removing rocks
It is a necessary procedure before sowing seed potatoes. Potatoes are grown in “little tops”. First dig a trench (or channel) 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) deep. The length of the trench depends on the amount of seed potatoes you have available. The next trench should be at least 28 inches (70 cm) away from the first. We place the potato pieces inside the trench at a distance of at least 10 inches (25 cm). Then we level the field by covering the trenches with soil. at this point, We must ‘raise’ our crops by doing hills. we do that, Because potatoes growing on the surface will not help the potato plant to thrive and produce a new plant. Furthermore, Lifting the soil between the trenches will help mark the location of the seed rows. Many farmers also use the space between the furrows as an irrigation channel. And therefore, We must raise them by mounding soil from each side of the row about 4 inches (10 cm) higher along the base of the plants.
About two months after planting, We’ll see healthy potato plants. at that time, We may have to raise the crops again from the surface, This is to prevent any potatoes from reaching the surface and exposing them to the sun. if exposed to sunlight, Potatoes will most likely turn green and become unfit for human consumption. At this point (two months after transplantation), We can also consider putting in fertilizer, either in soil or leaves, If necessary (it depends on the field – every field is different and has different needs). We must also check for pests and diseases by carefully observing the shape and color of the leaves. Potato cultivation requires providing it with water. However the climate and evapotranspiration in your field will determine the frequency of watering. If there is no rain in your area, You may have to water your plants from once a week to once a month during the growing period
After planting about 3-4 months depending on the climate and seed variety, Usually we are ready to harvest potatoes. The potatoes are ready to be harvested when the leaves begin to die. Many farmers wait another two weeks after that point, Others begin harvesting once the leaves turn yellow. carefully dig the soil between the rows of seed, And search for potatoes. Once all the potatoes are harvested, It is useful to leave it for a few hours on the surface of the field in the sun (provided that there is no possibility of rain), So that it can dry naturally
