spuds in containers

[johntheeng]

When growing potatoes in containers do you leave the top growth exposed or do you cover it completely when earthing up. I have read differing views on this and am now confused. I suppose I could do some both ways but would like ti know what does best for you.
john.

[Hammer]

Hi Johntheeng,
as you say there is no definitive answer. I prefer to leave some foliage above the soil, i just think that it,s the leaves that help the growth and they need some light to do this.
Regards Hammer

[WelshBoa]

I am growing mine in purpose made sacks. The soil is more or less to the brim of each sack but the foliage is far higher. Whats happened now is the foliage has fallen over, unable to support its own weight.

The plants are still green and flowering so am wondering if this is going to damage or slow the growth of the potatoes in the sack? Or do I just accept this and as the leaves are still getting sunlight hope they continue to provide goodness to the potatoes?

cant see what else i can do.

[johnmichael]

Originally Posted by WelshBoa

I am growing mine in purpose made sacks. The soil is more or less to the brim of each sack but the foliage is far higher. Whats happened now is the foliage has fallen over, unable to support its own weight.

The plants are still green and flowering so am wondering if this is going to damage or slow the growth of the potatoes in the sack? Or do I just accept this and as the leaves are still getting sunlight hope they continue to provide goodness to the potatoes?

cant see what else i can do.

Put 4 canes spaced around sack perimeter and insert a ring of garden wire secured with cable ties,place this near to top of foliage and feed tops through.saves on space and prevents drooping or breakage.Best done at time of planting.

[Nicola_D]

Mine have done the same, we've just harvest one of our first early containers and had about 40 potatoes, some were huge! I think I've made a mistake by planting some main crop into containers and the foliage is huge, but has draped over the sides and is now growing upwards , it's full of flowers and looks quite pretty so we're just going to see what happens.