Expert: Richard Clark - 7/27/2006

Question
Dear Mr.Clark,

I planted potatoes in the beggining of the summer and they now
are quite tall. I have one question. How do you know when they are
ready to be harvested and how do you harvest them?

Answer
Ahmad
First the potatoes vines will start turning yellow, this is a sign that they are starting to ripen. This is also a sign to irrigate them less. Next the vines will start to die, this will indicate the potatoes under the plant are maturing. The skin will also get firmer. You can dig them with a shovel (being careful not to cut them) or by hand. Store them in a dark cool place. Keep them about 38 to 40 degrees you can enjoy them all winter.
Enjoy the fruit of your labor.
Richard