Expert: Richard Clark - 10/3/2006

Question
I would like to start growing potatoes in my back yard. Is it true that all I need is regular soil and cuttings from potatoes? Thank you for your help in this matter.  

Answer
Danny
Yes, almost.  As long as it is rich, healthy and well drained you can grow potatoes. You cannot use the potatoes from the store. Most of them are sprayed so they will not sprout. Order some seed from a seed catalog. Plant in the Spring when all danger of a frost is over. Work the soil so it is soft when you plant. Irrigate but don't over irrigate. The first year if the soil is rich it should not take too much fertilizer if any. It would be a good to have a soil sample taken to see if you need some type of fertilizer.
Good luck, Richard