How To Keep Potatoes For Seed

How to Keep Potatoes for Seed: A Guide to Growing Your Own Spuds

Saving potato seeds, or more accurately, seed potatoes, is a rewarding way to ensure a bountiful harvest and save money. This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting the right potatoes to storing them properly. By following these steps, you can successfully overwinter your seed potatoes and enjoy homegrown potatoes year after year.

Choosing the Right Potatoes for Seed

Not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to seed saving. Here's what to look for:

• Disease-free: Select potatoes that are completely free of blemishes, rot, or signs of disease. Any infected potato can contaminate your entire batch.
• Variety: Choose a variety you enjoy eating and that performs well in your climate. Note the variety name for future reference.
• Size: Medium-sized potatoes (approximately 2-3 inches in diameter) are ideal. Smaller potatoes may not have enough energy reserves for robust growth, while larger ones may need to be cut (more on this below).
• Certified Seed Potatoes (Optional): If you're starting from scratch or want the highest quality seed potatoes, consider purchasing certified seed potatoes from a reputable supplier. These are disease-free and specifically bred for seed.

Preparing Seed Potatoes: Cutting and Curing

Larger potatoes will likely need to be cut into smaller pieces, called “seed pieces.” Each piece should ideally have at least two eyes (the "buds" from which new sprouts will emerge). Before cutting, allow the potatoes to cure for a week in a cool, dark, dry place. Curing helps prevent rotting and strengthens the potato's defenses.

Cutting Instructions:

1. Use a sharp, clean knife to cut the potatoes into seed pieces.
2. Allow the cut surfaces to air dry for a few hours to help prevent disease.
3. Dust the cut surfaces with a fungicide (optional, but recommended) to protect against rot.

Storing Seed Potatoes for Winter

Proper storage is crucial for preserving your seed potatoes until planting time. Aim for a cool, dark, and dry environment:

• Temperature: The ideal temperature is between 38-45°F (3-7°C).
• Humidity: Avoid excessive moisture, which can encourage rot.
• Light: Direct sunlight can cause the potatoes to sprout prematurely.
• Containers: Use well-ventilated containers, such as mesh bags or cardboard boxes, to allow for good airflow. Avoid plastic bags which can trap moisture.
• Check Regularly: Inspect the potatoes regularly for signs of rot or sprouting. Remove any affected potatoes immediately to prevent spread.

Preventing Sprouting During Storage

While some sprouting is natural, excessive sprouting before planting can deplete the potato's energy stores. To minimize this, maintain a consistently cool temperature and avoid fluctuations.

Planting Your Seed Potatoes

Once spring arrives and the danger of frost has passed, it's time to plant your seed potatoes. Follow the instructions on your chosen variety's seed packet for ideal planting depth and spacing. Remember to plant the potatoes with the eyes facing upwards. This ensures easier sprout emergence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use potatoes from the grocery store for seed?

A: While possible, it's not ideal. Grocery store potatoes are often treated with growth inhibitors and may not be disease-free. For best results, start with certified seed potatoes or choose disease-free potatoes from your own harvest.

Q: How long can I store seed potatoes?

A: Seed potatoes can generally be stored for 3-4 months, but this can depend on storage conditions and potato variety.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a homegrown potato harvest year after year, starting from seed potatoes you’ve carefully preserved. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to success!