Potato potato Potatoes are cool-season tubers grown from certified seed tubers rather than true seed. They prefer cool nights and moderate days and will yield best in loose, stone-free, slightly acidic soil. Early types produce 'new potatoes' in summer, while maincrop types store through winter. Choose blight-resistant varieties for humid summers. Good hilling, even watering, and crop rotation are key to healthy, scab-free tubers. Growing conditions LightFull sun (at least 6–8 hours of direct light daily). Soil typeLoose, deep, well-drained loam or sandy loam enriched with mature compost; avoid fresh manure. Slightly acidic soil reduces common scab. Water requirementModerate but consistent; 25–40 mm per week, more during tuber bulking. Keep evenly moist, not waterlogged. Nutrient requirementMedium-high potassium, moderate phosphorus, low to moderate nitrogen. Excess nitrogen causes lush foliage and fewer tubers. Back to plant list
