Another January 2 find at Walmart was seed potatoes. An 8-package of Yucon Gold (a recommended Florida variety) potatoes for $2.50.
After trying to grow these in the Fall way too many times, I am having far more success with growing them now. These were planted January 2 using my own acid soil blend, in 7-gallon pots, and kept BARELY moist (not on drip irrigation). Lots of perlite was incorporated to my mix to help keep it good and dry.
In January, I used a small amount of soil in bottom, added three seed potatoes per pot, then added soil to cover. The soil level was about 1/3 to 1/2 full in the pot at this time.
Today, February 14, I added soil to cover the green stems and the lower leaves. The tips/tops of the plants were not covered, just the stems. These will stay off of drip irrigation and watered by hand when there is the need. My drip has killed many a potato.
So far, so good. An occasional fungicide spray can help with disease. Spray BEFORE there is a problem. Copper fungicide and Garden Friendly Fungicide.
SEE MY FIRE ANT POST IN MARCH/APRIL. Enter potato ant in the search box in the upper right.
