Potatoes are traditionally planted in hills.
Potatoes, the part we like to eat, grow underground attached to the potato plants roots. They like a deep, nutrient-rich, loose and well-drained soil. This makes them a natural for growing in a barrel or bag. Purchase potato barrels, growing bags and other garden aides or create your own potato barrel. The key is to be able to add height to the sides as the potatoes grow and you add more dirt. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Cut six holes, the right size to stick the stakes through, in the bottom of the plastic basket using a hot knife. Cut two or three more holes for drainage. Place the basket in the spot where you want to grow potatoes and drive the stakes at least 6 inches into the ground to hold it in place.
2. Poke a few holes in the bottom of a 30-gallon heavy-duty garbage bag using a stick or a cool knife. Alternatively, use a commercial growing bag or a plastic mesh cat or dog food bag. Place the bag into the basket. Weight it in place with rocks or bricks. Roll down the top and secure the sides to the stakes using twist ties.
3. Put a 2-inch layer of gravel in the bottom of the bag and follow it up with 8 inches of compost, enriched garden dirt or pre-fertilized potting soil. Cut up two seed potatoes in chunks that have one or two "eyes" on each. Place the cuts sides down on the dirt and cover the potato pieces with dirt. If the basket is not quite deep enough, gently insert the bottom edge of plastic edging strips between the top of the basket and the outside of the bag. The weight of the dirt holds them in place.
4. Keep the soil moist, but not sodden, by watering often using a watering can or hose, and feed regularly with a liquid fertilizer intended for vegetables following package directions. As the potato plants grow, periodically unroll a bit of the bag, add more dirt and another supporting edging strip. By the end of three months, you can gently roll down one side of the bag and harvest new potatoes.
Tags: more dirt, potato plants