GARDEN Q&A: Is it too late to plant potatoes?

If you're planting now, ensure you’ve got good, fertile soil enriched with organic matter or compost.

Question: Is it too late to plant potatoes?

Answer:

While traditionally, early potatoes go in around St Patrick’s Day, it's certainly not too late to plant potatoes. April is actually a great month to get them into the ground. You still have plenty of time, particularly for second earlies and maincrop varieties.

If you're planting now, ensure you’ve got good, fertile soil enriched with organic matter or compost. Position seed potatoes about 30cm apart and around 10cm deep, with eyes facing upwards. As the plants grow, keep earthing them up as this protects the developing tubers from sunlight and frost, prevents greening, and boosts your yield.

If space is tight, try growing some in large containers or grow-bags. Just remember, consistent watering is crucial, especially if April turns dry.

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