When to harvest potatoes?

balaji27

Hello Team,

Please refer to the pics of my potato plant and please advice when to harvest and what is the indication I should look for to understand it is ready for harvest. Since the potatoes are grown under the soil and this is my 1st plant, don't know about the harvest period. Please advise.

Thanks - Balaji.

MitchellMc

Hi Balaji,

To know when it's time to harvest, watch for flowering – it's a good sign that tuber formation has begun. As the potatoes mature, the plant's above-ground foliage will start turning yellow and eventually die back. This is a natural process as the plant directs energy to the potatoes underground.

If you're curious, do a sample harvest by gently digging around the base of the plant. Check the size and smoothness of a few potatoes. If they look good, they're likely ready for harvest. Also, consider the time since planting; most potatoes are ready in about 10-12 weeks.

Remember to handle the potatoes carefully during harvest to avoid any damage. After harvesting, let them cure in a cool, dark place for a couple of weeks to toughen up their skins.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell