Question
I would like any info on potato plant propagation you can give.
i.e.
A) best method
B) tips/tricks
C) materials/ect.
Thank you very much for your time.
John

P.S. propagation from potato, not plant


Answer
John:
First I should say that most "experts" do not recommend trying to grow potatoes from those purchased in the grocery store. They are treated with chemicals to inhibit sprouting and cannot be guaranteed to be disease-free.

That said, I nonetheless have done it successfully myself. Whether from a store-bought potato or those grown specifically for planting, the first thing you want to do is cut it into pieces with no more than 3 eyes per piece. These should be allowed to dry for a day or two to inhibit mold and fungus. You can also treat the cut surfaces with powdered sulfur.

The pieces can be put into the ground right away, or allowed to sprout first. I usually prefer the latter, that way I know I have viable starts, and can plant just those that have sprouted.

Potatoes should be planted as early as possible in your area, if you are prone to frosts a week or two before the last frost date is good. You can also plant them later for a later harvest, but it should be before the weather turns too warm.

They are really very easy to get started and don't require any special materials or tools. By the way, if you don't see any "eyes" on the potato, don't buy it for sprouting.

Elyse