Help needed

[tickwatcher]

Hi,
I,m trying for the first time to grow potatos in bags. I planted them as directed - with gaps between planting, and the first bag, some four feet deep, is sporting a fine growth. My questions are...I was told that the potato grows up, flowers, & then dies off, leaving the tubers ready for harvest. Is this correct?
I ask because apart from a very heavy growth of 'green stuff' I have had very few flowers...and all have fallen before really opening. I do water frequently.
Also, if all things are equal...how do I know when to harvest?
Thanks, this is my first attempt at any orm of gardening, so I need all the help I can get!
PJK

[AdamF]

Hi Tickwatcher,

Welcome to the forum!

Originally Posted by tickwatcher

I was told that the potato grows up, flowers, & then dies off, leaving the tubers ready for harvest.

That is correct, I always put my hand a few inches into the soil and see if I can feel the potatoes before harvesting

Hope That Helps!

[tickwatcher]

Originally Posted by Adam Fletcher

Hi Tickwatcher,

Welcome to the forum!


That is correct, I always put my hand a few inches into the soil and see if I can feel the potatoes before harvesting

Hope That Helps!

Hi Adam... Much obliged, good to know I'm pointing in the right direction!
Thanks also for the welcome.

[Lesley Jay]

Hi Tickwatcher! Welcome to our forum!

Not all the potato varieties flower so if you give early varieties 13 weeks between planting and harvesting and main crop varieties 22 weeks you should be about right.

[TPeers]

Hi Tickwatcher,

not growing spuds this year - too many wireworm in my newly created veg beds, but have a little poke around in your sacks, when you can feel a few reasonably sized spuds, then go for it!

The longer you leave it the larger the spuds in theory, but equally the more chance of uneven watering causing cracks and slugs etc getting a look in.

Best of luck - fresh spuds - wonderful!

Terry