When to harvest potatoes

Whether you’re planting determinant or indeterminant potatoes, it’s good to know when to actually harvest them. As potatoes grow underground, figuring out the timing of when to best harvest your potatoes is critical to a successful yield. Growing in grow bags, containers or in-ground, the principles are all the same for how to figure out when to dig in.

If you have already started potatoes in your back yard, and have found yourself in mid-season, in Zone 5b, start the season with reliable varieties like 'Yukon Gold' or 'Red Norland,' which can withstand the lingering chill in the air. These early varieties signal the advent of summer through their delicate foliage and vibrant blossoms.

Understanding the nature of your potato plants is essential to determine the ideal harvesting time. Determinant potatoes have a predetermined growth pattern. They reach a specific height and focus on tuber production. Indeterminate potatoes, however, continue growing until frost sets in. While both types have their merits, determinant potatoes provide a more predictable harvest window.

Throughout the growing season, your potato patch transforms into a verdant landscape. The plants stretch towards the sun, their lush foliage adding splashes of green to your garden. Delicate blossoms appear, resembling celestial stars amidst the foliage. This marks the beginning of the potato's journey, requiring your vigilance and a keen ear for nature's cues.

Pay attention to the foliage as the harvest draws near. The once-vibrant leaves gradually fade, curl, and wilt, signaling the plant's shift towards tuber development. This change indicates that the potatoes are maturing beneath the soil, gathering nutrients for their final growth spurt.

The emergence of blooms adds grace to your garden. After the flowers fade, small green fruits resembling tomatoes may appear. However, for those seeking edible tubers, it is important to remove these fruits to redirect the plant's energy towards developing underground treasures.

As summer transitions to its waning phase, it's time to unearth your potato bounty. For determinant varieties, look for foliage that turns golden and falls gracefully to the ground. This visual cue indicates that the potatoes are ready for harvest. Gently probe the soil with your fingers or a garden fork, testing the readiness of the tubers. Look for potatoes with desirable size, firm skin, and a satisfying texture.

If you miss the spring planting window and find yourself in mid-summer with no potatoes planted, don't despair. Zone 5b accommodates mid-season planting as well. Consider varieties like 'Kennebec' or 'Russet Burbank' for an autumn harvest. These late bloomers exhibit vigorous growth, defying the shorter days. Give them ample space to thrive, and they will reward you with a bountiful harvest.

Mastering the art of potato harvest as a Zone 5b gardener involves observing your plants closely and understanding their growth patterns. With practical insights and attention to cues such as foliage transformation and flower development, you can determine the ideal moment to unearth your potato treasures. Remember to relish the satisfaction of your hard-earned harvest and embrace the Earth's gifts that grace your table. Happy harvest!