How to tell if potatoes are producing?

by Bud Alexis
(North Louisiana)

I have heard that sometimes potato plants can make a bush but not potatoes.

Do I have to dig around the roots to see if they are producing?

How long does it take before they start producing a potato?

Bud

ANSWER:


Hi Bud,

It takes about 90-120 days for potatoes to start producing. Usually when the plants begin to bloom, they will also start sending out small potatoes on the roots.

If you pile some straw about half-way up the growing potato plants, this will help retain soil moisture during hot weather.

Also, when you add dirt or straw to create a mound around the potato plants, they will send out side roots that will produce additional potatoes.

Once the plants begin to bloom, you can pull some of the straw back to see how the potato tubers are growing.

This technique prevents you having to dig and disturb the roots to check on your growing potatoes.