How to Plant and Grow Potatoes in Containers with Just One Potato

Materials Needed:

• 1 Seed Potato: Choose a healthy potato with at least 1-2 “eyes” (small sprouts).
• Container: A large pot or container with drainage holes (at least 10-12 inches deep).
• Potting Soil: Well-draining soil mix.
• Compost: For added nutrients.
• Watering Can: For keeping the soil moist.
• Fertilizer (optional): Balanced or high-potassium fertilizer.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potato:
   • Inspect your seed potato for healthy eyes (sprouts). If it has multiple eyes, you can cut the potato into pieces, ensuring each piece has at least one eye. Let the pieces dry for a day or two to prevent rot. However, if you prefer, you can plant it whole if it’s small enough.
2. Prepare the Container:
   • Choose a container with good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Fill the container with a mix of potting soil and compost, leaving about 4-6 inches of space at the top.
3. Plant the Potato:
   • Place the potato (or pieces) about 2-3 inches deep into the soil. If you’re using a whole potato, place it with the eyes facing up. Cover with soil, leaving just the top of the potato below the surface.
4. Watering:
   • Water the soil thoroughly after planting. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Potatoes need regular watering, especially as they start to grow.
5. Provide Light:
   • Place the container in a sunny spot where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Potatoes need plenty of light to grow well.
6. Fertilizing (Optional):
   • If desired, apply a balanced or high-potassium fertilizer according to the package instructions to encourage healthy growth.
7. Tending to the Plants:
   • As the potato plants grow, they will develop green stems and leaves. When the plants reach about 6-8 inches tall, add more soil around the base to cover the lower stems. This process, called “hilling,” encourages the plant to produce more tubers.
8. Harvesting:
   • Potatoes are usually ready to harvest when the plants start to die back and turn yellow. Gently dig through the soil with your hands or a small trowel to find the potatoes. Be careful not to damage them.
9. Storing:
   • After harvesting, allow the potatoes to cure in a cool, dry place for a week before storing them in a dark, cool place.

Enjoy your homegrown potatoes! With just one potato, you can get a rewarding harvest and the satisfaction of growing your own food.