Your Guide to Growing Delicious Potatoes with Organic Fertilizer

Growing your own potatoes with organic fertilizer can be a rewarding and delicious endeavor. Not only do you get to enjoy fresh, homegrown potato produce, but you also have control over the growing process, ensuring your potatoes are organic and chemical-free. Using organic fertilizer is a great way to achieve healthy, robust potato plants. Celebrate growing organic potatoes! Here’s a simple guide to help you grow potatoes with organic fertilizer along with fun facts and trends.

Why Choose Organic Fertilizer for Potatoes?

Organic fertilizers are derived from natural sources such as biomass, manure, and other meals [1]. They enrich the soil with essential nutrients for potato plants without the use of harmful chemicals. These fertilizers slowly release nutrients, ensuring your potato plants get a steady diet that supports robust growth. Organic fertilizers improve soil structure, increase microbial activity, and provide a slow, steady release of nutrients, which is perfect for potato plants.

Varieties of Potatoes

There are many potato varieties to choose from, each with unique characteristics. Potatoes could be starchy, sweet, and waxy. Sixteen types of potatoes are available for cooking [2] and for growing. Here are some popular options for growers:

1. Russet

Russet potatoes are the most common variety. They have a thick, rough skin and a starchy, fluffy interior. They are perfect for baking, frying, and making mashed potatoes.

2. Yukon Gold

Yukon Gold potatoes have a smooth, thin skin and a yellow, buttery flesh. They are versatile and can be used for boiling, baking, and roasting. Their creamy texture makes them ideal for mashed potatoes.

3. Red Pontiac

Red Pontiac potatoes are known for their thin, red skin and white flesh. They are excellent for boiling and hold their shape well, making them great for salads and stews.

4. Fingerling

Fingerling potatoes are small, elongated potatoes with a waxy texture. They come in various colors, including yellow, red, and purple. They are perfect for roasting and grilling.

5. Purple Majesty

Purple Majesty potatoes have a striking purple skin and flesh. They are rich in antioxidants and have a slightly nutty flavor. They are great for adding color to your dishes and can be used in the same way as other potatoes.

Among these varieties, Russet potatoes are the most popular due to their versatility and excellent baking qualities. They are a staple in many households and restaurants.

Potatoes Growing Season: When to Plant for Perfect Harvest

Potatoes are typically planted in early spring, once the soil temperature reaches at least 45°F (7°C). In cooler climates, this is usually 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost. In warmer regions, potatoes can also be planted in the fall for a winter harvest.

Potatoes Growth Time and Stages: From Seed to Harvest

Potato plants go through several growth stages:

1. Sprouting: Seed potatoes sprout and roots develop.
2. Vegetative growth: Leaves and stems grow rapidly.
3. Tuber initiation: Small tubers form underground.
4. Tuber bulking: Tubers grow in size.
5. Maturation: Plant foliage dies back, and tubers mature and harden.

Getting Started

1. Choose the Right Variety

First, decide which type of potato you want to grow. Consider your climate, soil conditions, and how you plan to use the potatoes in your cooking.

2. Prepare the Soil

Potatoes thrive in well-drained, loose soil with a pH level of 5.0 to 7.0. Start by loosening the soil to a depth of about 12 inches. Remove any rocks or debris to allow the potato tubers to grow freely.

3. Add Organic Fertilizer

Mix organic fertilizer into the soil before planting. Good options include compost, well-rotted manure, or a balanced organic fertilizer blend. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates. Organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly, providing a steady supply of nourishment for your potato plants.

Understanding Potatoes' Fertilizer Requirements

Potatoes require a balanced mix of nutrients to thrive, including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Nitrogen is crucial for leafy growth, phosphorus supports root development and tuber formation, and potassium enhances overall plant health and disease resistance. Balanced organic fertilizers can supply these essential nutrients in a slow-release form, promoting steady growth.

Planting Your Potatoes

4. Seed Potatoes

Purchase certified seed potatoes from a reputable supplier. Avoid using potatoes from the grocery store as they may be treated with chemicals to prevent sprouting.

5. Cut and Cure

Cut the seed potatoes into pieces, ensuring each piece has at least one or two “eyes” (buds). Allow the cut pieces to cure for a day or two in a cool, dry place. This helps prevent rotting when planted.

6. Planting

Plant the seed potatoes in rows, spacing them about 12 inches apart with the eyes facing up. Cover them with 4 inches of soil. As the plants grow, continue to mound soil around the stems to encourage tuber development.

Caring for Your Potato Plants

7. Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Potatoes need about 1-2 inches of water per week. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

8. Fertilizing

As the plants grow, you can side-dress them with more balanced organic fertilizer. This means placing the fertilizer along the sides of the rows and lightly mixing it into the soil. This provides an extra boost of nutrients during the growing season.

Potatoes Fertilizer Schedule

To ensure optimal growth, follow this fertilization schedule:

• Pre-planting: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil.
• Early growth: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer when plants reach 6 inches in height.
• Mid-season: Side-dress with compost or a high-potassium organic fertilizer when plants begin to flower.

9. Pest Control

Keep an eye out for common potato pests such as aphids, potato beetles, and nematodes. Use organic pest control methods like introducing beneficial insects, handpicking pests, or using organic options like neem oil.

10. Harvest Time

Your potatoes are ready to harvest when the foliage begins to yellow and die back. Gently dig up the plants with a fork, being careful not to damage the tubers. Allow the harvested potatoes to cure in a cool, dark place for a couple of weeks to toughen their skins for storage.

11. Storage

Store your cured potatoes in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator as cold temperatures can convert the starches to sugars, affecting the taste.

Fun Facts About Potatoes

1. Ancient Crop

Potatoes have been cultivated for thousands of years. The Inca people of Peru were growing potatoes as far back as 8000 BC [3].

2. Organic Fertilizer for Nutritional Powerhouse

Potatoes require a balanced mix of N-P-K nutrients to thrive, dual action organic fertilizers with macro- and micro- nutrients yield nutritious potatoes. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and B6 [4]. They are also a good source of dietary fiber.

3. Space Potatoes

In 1995, potatoes became the first vegetable to be grown in space [5]. NASA and the University of Wisconsin-Madison collaborated to grow them on the Space Shuttle Columbia. They grew white potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.).

4. Varieties Galore

According to the International Potato Center (CIP), there are over 4,000 varieties of potatoes worldwide, ranging in color, size, and flavor [6]. Each variety offers unique culinary possibilities. All 4,000 varieties are grown in Peru.

5. Potato Festivals

Potatoes are celebrated in festivals around the world, including the National Potato Day in the United States and the Potato Festival in Peru. 

6. Historical Significance

Potatoes played a crucial role in the history of several countries. The Great Famine in Ireland in the 19th century was caused by potato crop failures due to a disease called late blight.

7. Record-Breaking Potato

The heaviest potato ever recorded weighed 10 pounds and 14 ounces (4.98 kg). It was grown by Peter Glazebrook from Nottinghamshire, England [7].

Quick Top FAQs | On Organic Fertilizer

Can organic fertilizers burn my potato plants?

Unlike synthetic options, organic fertilizers like NutriHarvest® Organic Fertilizers are gentle and won’t burn your plants as they release nutrients slowly.

What is the best organic fertilizer for potatoes? Are organic fertilizers efficient and sustainable?

The new generation of dual action, balanced, and nutrient-rich organic fertilizers go a step further in not only producing great harvest but provide clean water benefits from its manufacture for a unique alchemy of agriculture with water conservation. These are crafted not just to nourish our plants, but to save our waterways too by capturing potent waste nitrogen and phosphorus and packing them as a balanced blend of nutrients for optimizing plant growth! When selecting organic fertilizers for your plants, opt for products that provide a balanced blend of macro and micro nutrients to meet the specific needs of vegetables, and look for labels indicating the NPK ratio, as well as the presence of additional micronutrients such as NutriHarvest® Gold and Premium Organic Fertilizers.

How often should I apply organic fertilizer?

This depends on your soil nutrients, potato plant's needs, and the type of organic fertilizer. Follow application instructions on the fertilizer bag carefully.

How to Nourish the Earth?

To nourish the Earth, engage in sustainable practices such as organic farming and waste reduction. Use dual-action sustainable organic fertilizers like NutriHarvest® Organic Fertilizers that produce nutritious food and help conserve natural resources - soil and water. Supporting reforestation and conservation efforts also plays a crucial role in healing our planet.

Potato Market Economics and Current Trends

1. Global Production

Potatoes are one of the most widely grown crops in the world, with major production centers in China, India, Russia, and the United States. As per Potato News Today [8, 9, 10], based on the FAO’s FAOSTAT database, in 2022, global potato production reached approximately 375 million tonnes, with China producing the most at 95.5 million tonnes, followed by India at 56 million tonnes, totals one third of the world’s potatoes.

2. Organic Potato Market

The demand for organic potatoes is on the rise as consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware. Organic potatoes, grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, command a higher price in the market due to their perceived health benefits and sustainable farming practices.

3. Price Fluctuations

Potato prices can be highly volatile due to factors such as weather conditions, disease outbreaks, and changes in supply and demand. For instance, droughts or excessive rain can significantly impact potato yields, leading to price hikes.

4. Export and Import Trends

Countries with favorable climates and advanced farming techniques, like the Netherlands and Germany, are major exporters of potatoes and potato products. Conversely, countries with less domestic production capacity, such as Japan and certain Middle Eastern nations, are significant importers [11].

5. Value-Added Products

The market for value-added potato products, such as frozen fries, potato chips, and dehydrated potatoes, is expanding rapidly [12]. Convenience foods are in high demand, and potatoes are a versatile ingredient in many processed food products.

6. Technological Advancements

Innovations in farming technology, including precision agriculture and improved storage techniques, are helping farmers increase yields and reduce losses. These advancements contribute to a more stable supply and can help mitigate the effects of adverse weather conditions.

7. Sustainability Practices

There is a growing emphasis on sustainable farming practices within the potato industry. Farmers are adopting methods such as crop rotation, reduced tillage, and integrated pest management to improve soil health and reduce environmental impact. United Nations has declared May 30 as the International Day of Potato [13].

Enjoy Your Homegrown Potatoes

Growing potatoes with organic fertilizer is a satisfying and earth-friendly way to produce delicious tubers right in your backyard. With a little care and attention, you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest of tasty, nutritious potatoes in any setting, whether you want to enjoy your beautiful backyard garden or cultivating a sustainable greenhouse business growing plants or have a thriving farm tending corn and other crops. 

By following these simple steps, you can successfully grow your own potatoes using organic fertilizer. Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll be savoring the unmatched flavor of homegrown potatoes. Happy gardening!

Use Dual Action OMRI-listed and USDA-Certified Biobased Organic Fertilizers for growing Delicious Potatoes:

References

For the references in this article or additional resources and information on the potato industry and market trends, you can visit:

[1] Organic fertilizers as a route to controlled release of nutrients. In: Controlled Release Fertilizers for Sustainable Agriculture, Academic Press. 2021, Pages 95-110

[2] 16 Types of Potatoes, Explained by Sara Kate Gillingham

[3] Lost crops of the Incas. Little-Known Plants of the Andes with Promise for Worldwide Cultivation. (1989) National Academy Press. Contributor(s): National Research Council; Policy and Global Affairs; Board on Science and Technology for International Development; Ad Hoc Panel of the Advisory Committee on Technology Innovation

[4] Potatoes, russet, flesh and skin, raw (Includes foods for USDA's Food Distribution Program). US Department of Agricluture (USDA).

[5] Growth of Potatoes. Man/System Technology and Life Support. Aerospace Medicine and Biology, NASA. Page 37.

[6] Potato Facts and Figures. The International Potato Center (CIP).

[7] The Heaviest potato Guinness World Records

[8] Potato production worldwide

[9] FAO's FAOSTAT database

[10] Potato News Today.

[11] Europatat website

[12] Potato Business

[13] Why an International Day of Potato?