Spuds

Newtothisgame · Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2011 10:27 am Post subject: Spuds

I have a few charlotte seed potatoes that I would like to plant tomorrow. I have been trying to chit them but the chits are not very big - only a small bit of growth - a few mms - is that enough or should I delay in planting these? Thanks

Maeve Drogheda · Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2011 12:04 pm Post subject:

Hi Newtothisgame,

I have charlotte seed potatoes also but I am not planting them out yet, they were slow last year chitting but it was worth the wait, as they were still ready earlier that the other two types of Potatoes I grew last year. Last year I planted the charlotte spuds out at the beginning of April and they were delicious.

So in answer to your question I would wait a couple of weeks more to make sure they grow really well for you. But I am no expert.

Newtothisgame · Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2011 1:07 pm Post subject: Spuds

Thanks Maeve. I was told by someone locally to have my potatoes in on St Patrick's Day to harvest them on the 12th of July! I'll hold off a few more weeks. What kinds of potatoes are you growing this year? I may buy a few other types ...

Maeve Drogheda · Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2011 1:23 pm Post subject:

This year I am growing Charlotte, Diseree and Maris Pipers. Last year I grew homeguard, golden wonders and Charlotte, But I didn't like the flavour on the homeguard and golden wonder, but the charlotte spuds were just delicious boiled with a little butter and fresh parsley from the herb pots.

A bit of useless information for you. . . . . . Tayto and Hunky Dory Crisps are made from Lady Clare, and charlotte potatoes!!

Two years ago I grew blue potatoes, I planted them in July and ate it in September they were delicious. I have never seen them since. a farmer at work gave me a couple to try.

michael brenock · Posted: Wed Mar 16, 2011 9:09 pm Post subject:

unsprouted potatoes will sprout faster overground than underground so delay the planting for another week or ten days.
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)

56K Natas · Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2011 4:28 am Post subject:

how long should the chit or shoot be on your spuds before you plant them ?

michael brenock · Posted: Thu Mar 17, 2011 11:05 pm Post subject:

the shoots should be about half inch to three quarters long (1.2 -2 cms)
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)