How To Plant Purple Potatoes – Your Guide To A Bountiful, Nutritious

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Ever dreamt of adding a splash of vibrant color and incredible nutrition to your garden and dinner plate? If you’re like me, you love experimenting with unique veggies, and purple potatoes are truly a showstopper! Their striking hue and impressive health benefits make them a fantastic addition to any home garden.

Well, get ready, because today we’re diving deep into how to plant purple potatoes, transforming your gardening dreams into a delicious reality. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner; I’ve got all the practical tips and tricks you need. From selecting the perfect seed potatoes to harvesting your colorful bounty, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you have all the knowledge for a thriving purple potato patch. Let’s dig in!

Why Grow Purple Potatoes? Beyond the Beauty!

Before we get our hands dirty, let’s talk about why you absolutely should consider growing these magnificent tubers. Beyond their stunning visual appeal, there are some compelling benefits of how to plant purple potatoes that make them a standout choice.

  • Nutritional Powerhouse: Purple potatoes are packed with antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which are the same compounds that give blueberries and blackberries their vibrant color. These antioxidants are fantastic for your health, fighting free radicals and potentially reducing inflammation.
  • Unique Flavor and Texture: While similar to their white and yellow cousins, purple potatoes often boast a slightly nuttier, earthier flavor. Their texture tends to be a bit denser, making them perfect for roasting, mashing, or adding to salads.
  • Garden Novelty: Let’s be honest, growing something as visually striking as a purple potato is just plain fun! It adds an exciting element to your garden and a delightful surprise to your meals.
  • Versatility in the Kitchen: From vibrant mashed potatoes to colorful potato salads and crispy roasted wedges, the culinary possibilities are endless.

Trust me, once you’ve tasted fresh, homegrown purple potatoes, you’ll wonder why you didn’t plant them sooner!

Prepping for Success: Choosing & Chitting Your Seed Potatoes Right

The journey to a successful purple potato harvest begins long before you even touch the soil. Proper preparation of your seed potatoes is a crucial step in our how to plant purple potatoes guide.

Selecting the Best Seed Potatoes

First things first: you need good quality seed potatoes. These aren’t just any potatoes you buy at the grocery store. Seed potatoes are specifically grown to be disease-free and are certified for planting.

  • Source Wisely: Purchase certified seed potatoes from a reputable garden center, nursery, or online supplier. This minimizes the risk of introducing diseases into your garden.
  • Variety Matters: There are several purple potato varieties, such as ‘All Blue’, ‘Purple Majesty’, ‘Adirondack Blue’, and ‘Purple Peruvian’. Research their growth habits and choose one that suits your climate and preferences.
  • Inspect Carefully: Look for firm, healthy tubers without any signs of rot, mold, or significant damage.

What is “Chitting” and Why Do We Do It?

Chitting is a fancy term for pre-sprouting your seed potatoes before planting. It’s one of those essential how to plant purple potatoes tips that gives your plants a head start and can lead to an earlier, more robust harvest.

How to Chit Your Purple Potatoes:

  1. Gather Your Spuds: Lay your seed potatoes in a single layer in an egg carton, shallow tray, or open box.
  2. Find the “Eyes”: Identify the “eyes” or small indentations on the potato where sprouts will emerge.
  3. Light & Cool: Place the tray in a cool (around 50-60°F or 10-15°C), well-lit area, but out of direct sunlight. A spare room, garage, or even a bright windowsill works well.
  4. Be Patient: Over the next 2-4 weeks, small, sturdy, dark green or purple sprouts will begin to form from the eyes. Avoid long, pale, spindly sprouts, which indicate too little light.
  5. Cut if Needed: If your seed potatoes are larger than a chicken egg, you can cut them into pieces. Ensure each piece has at least 1-2 strong “eyes” and is roughly 1.5-2 ounces (40-60 grams) in size. Let the cut pieces “cure” for 2-3 days in a warm, dry spot before planting. This allows a protective skin to form, preventing rot.

Laying the Foundation: Ideal Soil & Site Selection

Just like any plant, purple potatoes thrive when their environment is just right. Creating the perfect home for your tubers is key to success, and it’s where our sustainable how to plant purple potatoes practices really shine.

Sunlight Requirements

Potatoes are sun-loving plants! They need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to produce a good crop. Choose a spot in your garden that gets plenty of sun throughout the day.

The Perfect Soil Mix

Soil is paramount. Purple potatoes prefer loose, well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0. Heavy, compacted clay soil will hinder tuber development and can lead to rot.

Soil Preparation Steps:

  1. Loosen Up: Dig down at least 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) to loosen the soil. This provides ample space for tubers to form without obstruction.
  2. Amend Generously: Incorporate plenty of organic matter. Well-rotted compost, aged manure, or leaf mold are excellent choices. This improves drainage, aeration, and nutrient content, aligning with eco-friendly how to plant purple potatoes methods. Aim for a soil mix that feels light and crumbly.
  3. Test pH: If you’re unsure about your soil’s pH, a simple soil test kit can give you an accurate reading. Adjust if necessary using sulfur to lower pH or lime to raise it, though potatoes generally prefer slightly acidic conditions.
  4. Avoid Fresh Manure: While manure is great, avoid using fresh manure as it can contribute to potato scab, a common disease. Stick to well-aged compost.

If your garden soil isn’t ideal, don’t despair! Raised beds or large containers are fantastic alternatives for growing purple potatoes, allowing you to create the perfect custom soil mix.

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The Main Event: How to Plant Purple Potatoes Step-by-Step

Now for the exciting part – getting those chitted seed potatoes into the ground! This section covers the core of how to plant purple potatoes, offering the best practices for a strong start.

When to Plant

Planting time depends on your climate. Potatoes are a cool-season crop. Plant them in early spring, about 2-4 weeks before your last anticipated frost date, once the soil has warmed to about 45°F (7°C). In warmer climates, you might even get a fall crop.

Planting Methods

There are a few popular ways to plant potatoes, each with its own advantages.

1. Trench Planting (Most Common)

  1. Dig a Trench: Dig a trench about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) deep and 6 inches (15 cm) wide. If planting multiple rows, space trenches 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) apart.
  2. Place Seed Potatoes: Place your chitted seed potato pieces (sprouts facing up) about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) apart in the bottom of the trench.
  3. Cover Lightly: Cover the seed potatoes with just 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) of soil.
  4. As They Grow: As the potato plants grow to about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) tall, begin “hilling” them. This involves mounding more soil around the base of the plant, leaving only the top few inches of foliage exposed. We’ll cover hilling in more detail in the care section.

2. Mound Planting

This method is great for smaller spaces or if you prefer not to dig long trenches.

  1. Prepare Mounds: Create individual mounds of loose soil, about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) high and 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) in diameter. Space mounds about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) apart.
  2. Plant in Mound: Plant 1-2 seed potato pieces about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) deep in the center of each mound.
  3. Cover: Gently cover with soil. As plants grow, you’ll add more soil to the mounds, similar to hilling.

3. Container or Grow Bag Planting

Perfect for patios, balconies, or areas with poor soil. Use large containers (15-gallon or larger) or specialized potato grow bags.

  1. Layer Soil: Add 6 inches (15 cm) of well-draining potting mix to the bottom of the container.
  2. Place Potatoes: Place 2-3 seed potato pieces on top of the soil, evenly spaced.
  3. Cover Lightly: Cover with another 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) of soil.
  4. As They Grow: As the plants grow, continue to add more soil or compost, leaving only the top leaves exposed, until the container is nearly full. This encourages more tubers to form along the buried stem.

No matter which method you choose, remember to water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil.

Nurturing Your Crop: Ongoing Care for Purple Potato Plants

Once your purple potatoes are in the ground, consistent care is essential for a healthy and abundant harvest. This section is your dedicated how to plant purple potatoes care guide.

Watering Wisely

Potatoes need consistent moisture, especially during flowering and tuber development. Uneven watering can lead to misshapen or cracked tubers.

  • Deep & Regular: Aim for 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of water per week, either from rain or irrigation. Water deeply to encourage root growth.
  • Check Soil: Feel the soil a few inches down. If it’s dry, it’s time to water.
  • Avoid Overhead Watering: Watering the foliage can encourage fungal diseases. Try to water at the base of the plants.

The Art of Hilling

Hilling is arguably the most important cultural practice for potatoes. It means mounding soil around the base of the growing plants.

  • Why Hill? Potatoes form along the stem *above* the original seed potato. Hilling protects these developing tubers from sunlight (which turns them green and toxic) and encourages more tubers to form, increasing your yield.
  • When to Hill: Start hilling when your plants are about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) tall.
  • How to Hill: Gently draw loose soil or compost from between the rows or around the plant bases, piling it up around the stems until only the top 3-4 inches of foliage are visible. Repeat this process every 2-3 weeks, or as the plants grow, until they flower.

Fertilization Needs

If your soil was well-amended with compost at planting, additional fertilization might not be necessary. However, if your soil is poor or plants show signs of nutrient deficiency, a balanced organic fertilizer can help.

  • Low Nitrogen: Potatoes need more phosphorus and potassium than nitrogen for tuber development. Too much nitrogen can lead to lush foliage but small tubers.
  • Side-Dressing: If fertilizing, side-dress with a balanced organic granular fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10 or 3-4-4) when plants are about 6 inches tall and again when they begin to flower.

Weed and Pest Patrol

Keeping weeds at bay and monitoring for pests are vital how to plant purple potatoes tips for a healthy crop.

  • Weed Control: Weeds compete for water and nutrients. Hand-pulling or shallow cultivation is best, as deep digging can damage developing tubers. Mulching can also suppress weeds and conserve moisture.
  • Common Pests:
    • Colorado Potato Beetles: These distinctive striped beetles and their reddish larvae can quickly defoliate plants. Hand-pick them off and drop them into soapy water.
    • Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth. A strong spray of water or insecticidal soap can manage them.
  • Disease Prevention:
    • Late Blight: A serious fungal disease, especially in humid conditions. Look for dark, water-soaked spots on leaves. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
    • Scab: Causes rough, corky lesions on tubers. Prevent by maintaining proper soil pH (slightly acidic) and avoiding fresh manure.

Regular inspection of your plants will help you catch any issues early before they become major problems.

The Grand Finale: Harvesting Your Purple Treasures

After months of diligent care, the moment arrives to reap your colorful reward! Knowing when and how to harvest is crucial for quality and storage.

When to Harvest

Purple potatoes are typically ready for harvest 75-100 days after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

  • “New” Potatoes: If you want small, tender “new” potatoes, you can gently reach into the soil around the plant’s base about 2-3 weeks after flowering and carefully pull out a few tubers without disturbing the main plant too much.
  • Main Harvest: For a full crop of mature tubers, wait until the foliage (leaves and stems) begins to yellow, wither, and eventually die back. This usually happens a few weeks after the plants have flowered. Once the tops are completely dead, wait another 2-3 weeks before digging. This allows the potato skins to “set” or thicken, which improves storage quality.
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How to Harvest

Harvesting requires a gentle touch to avoid damaging the tubers.

  1. Choose a Dry Day: Harvest on a dry day when the soil is not too wet. This makes digging easier and reduces the risk of fungal issues during storage.
  2. Dig Carefully: Use a garden fork, not a spade, to dig up potatoes. Start digging about 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) away from the main stem to avoid spearing the tubers. Gently loosen the soil and lift the plant.
  3. Search Thoroughly: Potatoes can spread! Carefully sift through the loosened soil to find all the hidden treasures.
  4. Brush, Don’t Wash: Gently brush off any excess soil. Do NOT wash the potatoes at this stage, as moisture can encourage rot during curing.

Curing Your Harvest for Long Storage

Curing is a vital step for extending the shelf life of your purple potatoes.

  1. Spread Them Out: Lay the harvested potatoes in a single layer in a cool (50-60°F or 10-15°C), dark, well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks.
  2. Let Skins Toughen: This curing process allows minor nicks to heal and the skins to toughen, significantly improving storage.

After curing, store your potatoes in a cool, dark, and humid place (like a root cellar or basement) in burlap sacks or slatted bins. Avoid storing them in plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause spoilage.

Common Problems with How to Plant Purple Potatoes & How to Solve Them

Even experienced gardeners face challenges. Knowing how to troubleshoot common issues is part of the gardening journey. Here are some common problems with how to plant purple potatoes and practical solutions.

  • Green Potatoes:
    • Problem: Tubers exposed to sunlight turn green and can become bitter and toxic due to solanine.
    • Solution: Ensure proper hilling throughout the growing season to keep all developing tubers covered with soil.
  • Small Yields:
    • Problem: Not enough potatoes or very small tubers.
    • Solution: This can be due to insufficient sunlight, poor soil fertility, inconsistent watering, or not enough hilling. Review your care practices and adjust accordingly.
  • Scab on Tubers:
    • Problem: Rough, corky patches on the potato skins. While unsightly, they’re usually harmless if peeled off.
    • Solution: Potato scab thrives in alkaline soil and with fresh manure. Maintain a slightly acidic soil pH (5.0-6.0) and use well-rotted compost instead of fresh manure.
  • Blossom Drop / No Flowers:
    • Problem: Flowers fall off prematurely or plants don’t flower at all.
    • Solution: Potatoes sometimes drop blossoms in very hot weather. Ensure consistent watering and adequate nutrients. Some varieties are bred for tuber production and may not flower prolifically.
  • Pest Damage:
    • Problem: Holes in leaves, chewed stems, or visible insects.
    • Solution: Regularly inspect your plants. For Colorado Potato Beetles, hand-picking is effective. For aphids, use a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.

Remember, gardening is about learning and adapting. Don’t be discouraged by a few bumps in the road!

Frequently Asked Questions About Purple Potatoes

Can I plant grocery store purple potatoes?

While it’s technically possible, it’s generally not recommended. Grocery store potatoes are often treated with sprout inhibitors and aren’t certified disease-free. Planting them can introduce diseases to your garden, leading to poor yields or unhealthy plants. Always opt for certified seed potatoes for the best results.

How long do purple potatoes take to grow?

Most purple potato varieties mature in about 75 to 100 days from planting. “New” potatoes can be harvested a few weeks after flowering, while the main harvest for mature, storage-ready tubers occurs when the plant’s foliage has died back, usually around the 90-day mark or later.

What’s the best way to store purple potatoes after harvest?

After curing them for 1-2 weeks, store your purple potatoes in a cool (40-50°F or 4-10°C), dark, and humid place. A root cellar, cool basement, or unheated closet works well. Keep them in breathable containers like burlap sacks, wooden crates, or mesh bags. Avoid direct sunlight and don’t store them near apples or onions, as these can accelerate sprouting.

Are purple potatoes harder to grow than regular potatoes?

Not at all! Growing purple potatoes follows the exact same principles and practices as growing any other potato variety. They require similar soil conditions, sunlight, watering, and hilling. The main difference is just the exciting color they bring to your garden and plate!

Do purple potatoes lose their color when cooked?

Some varieties may lighten slightly when cooked, especially if boiled for a long time. However, most purple potato varieties retain a good portion of their vibrant color, making them a visually appealing addition to dishes. Roasting, steaming, or mashing often preserves the color best.

Conclusion

There you have it—your comprehensive guide on how to plant purple potatoes, packed with all the knowledge, tips, and encouragement you need to grow a fantastic crop. From the moment you choose your seed potatoes to the joyous day of harvest, you’re embarking on a rewarding gardening adventure.

Remember, gardening is all about patience, observation, and a little bit of experimentation. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and learn along the way. The rich, earthy flavor and stunning color of your homegrown purple potatoes will be a testament to your hard work.

So, grab those seed potatoes, prepare your soil, and get ready to add a beautiful, nutritious splash of purple to your garden and your plate. Happy planting, my friend!

Rimon Chowdhury
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