What You Need:
- One potato (or seed potatoes)
- Large container (10-15 gallons, with drainage holes)
- Potting soil or compost (optional)
- Water
Step by step how to prepare:
- Step 1. Prepare the Potatoes: Cut the potato sprouts into 2-3 pieces, each with an “eye.” Let them dry for 24 hours to prevent rot.
- Step 2. Prepare the Container: Choose a large container with drainage holes. Fill it with 4-6 inches of potting soil or compost, mixed with a little fertilizer.
- Step 3. Plant the Potatoes: Place the potato pieces (with the sprouts facing up) in the soil. Cover them with another 4-6 inches of soil, leaving room to add more soil as the plant grows.
- Step 4. Water Regularly: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch feels dry.
- Step 5. Add Soil as the Plant Grows: As green shoots appear, continue adding soil to cover the lower parts, leaving the top leaves exposed. This encourages more tuber production.
- Step 6. Provide Sunlight: Place the container in a sunny spot with 6-8 hours of light every day.
- Step 7. Harvest: After 10-12 weeks or when the leaves yellow, gently dig to find the potatoes.
Success Tips:
- Use a large container with good drainage.
- Choose healthy seed potatoes or pieces.
- Add soil regularly as the plant grows.
- Protect from frost.
Benefits:
- Space-saving: Ideal for small spaces.
- Easy to manage: Effectively control soil and pests.
- No digging required: Just empty the container to harvest.