Choosing the Right Containers

To start growing potatoes in containers, it's important to choose the right containers. Look for whiskey barrel containers or large pots that have drainage holes at the bottom. This will ensure proper drainage and prevent waterlogged soil.

Additionally, make sure the containers are deep enough to accommodate the potato plants. A depth of 12-16 inches is ideal for most potato varieties.

When selecting containers, opt for materials that are lightweight yet durable, such as plastic or fabric containers. These containers are easier to move around and provide good airflow to the roots.

Whiskey barrel container for growing potatoes

Plastic container with drainage holes

Preparing the Soil

The next step is to prepare the soil for planting. Start by filling the containers with a well-draining potting mix or a blend of garden soil and compost.

Potatoes prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0. You can test the soil pH using a pH testing kit and make adjustments if needed by adding lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.

Mix in some organic compost or aged manure to enrich the soil with nutrients. This will help the potatoes grow healthy and produce a good yield.

Adding compost to the potting mix

Planting and Growing Potatoes

Now it's time to plant the potatoes. Start by chitting the seed potatoes, which means allowing them to sprout before planting. Place the seed potatoes in a cool, well-lit area for a few weeks until they develop small sprouts.

Once the seed potatoes have sprouted, cut them into pieces, making sure each piece has at least one sprout. Plant the potato pieces in the containers, burying them about 4-6 inches deep.

As the potato plants grow, keep adding more soil or straw to cover the stems and promote tuber formation. Water the plants regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Potatoes thrive in full sun, so make sure to place the containers in a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. If you have limited sunlight in your garden, consider using grow lights to supplement the natural light.

Harvesting and Storing Potatoes

After a few months of growth, your potato plants will start flowering and eventually die back. This is a sign that the potatoes are ready to be harvested.

Carefully dig up the potatoes using a garden fork or your hands. Be gentle to avoid damaging the tubers. Brush off any excess soil and let the potatoes dry in a cool, dark place for a few days.

Once the potatoes have dried, store them in a cool, dry, and dark place like a basement or pantry. Avoid storing them near ethylene-producing fruits, as this can cause the potatoes to sprout prematurely.

With proper care and storage, you can enjoy your homegrown potatoes for several months.