Harvesting Potatoes

by Susan Hall
(Kindred, Tasmania, Australia)

What would be the ideal temperature of potato tubers at digging time, to then put them in cool storage?

ANSWER:

Hi Susan,

Usually when the potato plant foliage turns brown it is best to wait two weeks before harvesting the potatoes. This allows the tubers to fully mature.

Potatoes may be harvested whenever they are mature. The temperature at time of harvest can vary.

Let the potatoes dry for several days in a shady location with good air-circulation.

The temperature can be warm or cool for this process which will allow the potato skins to season and dry before storage.

For long-term storage, after the potatoes are dry they should be stored at cool temperatures of 38-40 degrees Fahrenheit in a dark location with high humidity.