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Old 01-06-2009, 01:21 AM posted to rec.gardens.edible
Special Agent Melvin Purvis Special Agent Melvin Purvis is offline
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First recorded activity by GardenBanter: Sep 2008
Posts: 12
Default Planting potatoes

On May 30, 6:36�am, gonzo wrote:
There's a pre-planting technique for potatoes which involves giving
them some sunlight before you pop them into the ground. �What happens
is the eyes begin to develop; I usually don't wait until they develop
sprouts, but green buds (I've forgotten the name of the technique -
chitting?). �I also don't bother cutting them up, since my local
greenhouse has 5lbs bags for less than $5.00 and no S&H charges.

I get a few (2-4) varieties and usually have enough to do a mid-season
sowing once summer gets here.

So what happens for me is that usually within a week I get leaves
poking up. �After plants have 8-12 inches showing they get their first
feeding and hilling.


My neighbor gave me one seed potato (red, I think). I cut it into
four pieces and planted them about 2" deep five weeks ago in a double-
dug bed. They are now robust bouquets two feet across here in zone 17.