Why You Should Cut Potatoes Before Planting and How to Plant Them

1. Increased Yield: Cutting them into pieces allows for more plants, boosting overall yield.
2. Disease Management: It helps identify and remove diseased parts, promoting healthier plants.
3. Cost-Effective: Cutting seed potatoes is more economical than buying whole ones.
4. Enhanced Sprouting: Exposing more eyes to the soil leads to more shoots and a higher yield.
How to Cut and Plant Potatoes:
1. Materials Needed: Seed potatoes, sharp knife, containers with well-draining soil, compost/fertilizer, watering can.
2. Steps:
_ Select healthy seed potatoes with multiple eyes.
_ Cut them into 1-2 inch pieces with at least 1-2 eyes each.
_ Let the cut pieces cure for 1-2 days to reduce the risk of rotting.
_ Prepare a sunny, well-draining planting area and amend the soil with compost.
_ Plant the potato pieces in holes or trenches, eyes facing up, and cover with soil.
_ Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
_ Mound soil around the base of the plants as they grow to encourage tuber development.
_ Monitor for pests and diseases, treating as necessary.
_ Harvest when the foliage starts to yellow and die back, being careful not to damage the potatoes.
Following these steps ensures a successful harvest of home-grown potatoes, maximizing yield and promoting plant health.