How to harvest and store potatoes UK

How to harvest and store potatoes UK?

Most potatoes are ready to be harvested 4 to 6 weeks after planting. To determine if potatoes are ready, simply press the flesh on the potato to check for firmness. If the potato’s flesh is firm, potatoes are ready to be harvested. You can also check the potatoes’ growth using a ruler. The growth of the potato, called a ‘tuber’, should be about the thickness of a penny. As the potatoes grow, they become sweeter and tender.

How to store potatoes UK?

Also called storage potatoes these potatoes are best stored at room temperature in a dark, dry location. Storing potatoes in the refrigerator will cause them to sprout and turn green. While many people like to store potatoes in the fridge, doing so will cause them to lose their sweetness and nutritional value. Storing potatoes in cool soil or sand will help keep them from turning green.

How to store potatoes for winter UK?

Next, store potatoes in a cool, dark place with good air circulation. Choose a dry, well-ventilated site with a planting spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight a day. You can also cut potatoes in a root cellar to help them store better. For potatoes stored in the ground, you can mound soil around them to help keep the potatoes from drying out. Or, you can line a bin or pot with sand and store potatoes in it in a cool, dark place.

How to harvest potatoes UK?

You can start harvesting potatoes when the potato tubers have reached the dinner plate size which generally happens in September. This is the time when the plants stop sending energy to the potatoes. The best way to harvest potatoes is to use a potato clipper. The clippers have two blades; one to cut the plants and the other to cut off the potatoes. The potatoes are cut when they are still connected to the plants. The potatoes can be stored in a cool and dark place for a few weeks before

How to harvest potatoes for storage UK?

Potatoes can be stored at different stages of maturity. For optimum storage, potatoes should be cured before being stored. Curing potatoes involves removing any excess moisture to prevent mildew from developing. It also stops potatoes from turning green when stored. Never cure potatoes in the sun as this will turn them green. Always cure potatoes in a dry, dark room. Curing potatoes for a few days is sufficient.