Introduction
If you ’re wonderingwhen to jump chitting white potato , you ’re not alone ! Timing is crucial to see to it yourseed potatoesdevelop strong , healthy sprouts before imbed , leading tofaster growth , gamey yields , and an earlier harvest .
Whether you ’re growingfirst earlies , second earlies , or maincrop potatoes , interpret thebest time to start chittingwill give your harvest the best potential commencement . In this templet , we ’ll coverwhen and how to chit potatoes , rough-cut mistakes to avoid , and expert tipsto help you get the most out of your Solanum tuberosum plants .
What is Chitting Potatoes?
Chitting is the outgrowth ofpre - sprouting seed potatoesbefore planting them in the solid ground . This encouragesstrong , healthy shoots , allowing the white potato vine to grow more quickly once planted .
By chitting your potatoes , you canget ahead of the time of year , reduce the hazard of putrefaction , and see to it your potatoes establish quicker in the grunge .
When to Start Chitting Potatoes? (Best Time by Variety)
The ideal time to originate chitting bet on thetype of potatoes you ’re growingand your local climate .
First Earlies
Second Earlies
Maincrop Potatoes
? Pro Tip : If you live in acolder region(such as Scotland or Northern England ) , you may want to delay chitting bya duet of weeksto align with thelast frost datein your domain .
How to Chit Potatoes (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Choose Certified Seed Potatoes
2. Find the “Rose End” of the Potato
3. Place Potatoes in an Egg Carton or Seed Tray
4. Choose the Right Chitting Location
For the best results , store your potatoes in :
5. Monitor Sprouting Progress
6. Remove Weak Sprouts
7. Plant Chitted Potatoes at the Right Time
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Chitting Potatoes
1. Chitting in the Dark
If chitted in duskiness , tater producelong , faint , ashen sproutsthat wo n’t thrive .
2. Keeping Potatoes Too Warm
affectionate conditions causerapid sprouting , making potatoes thin and hard to institute .
3. Chitting Too Early
If chitted too soon , potatoes maysprout excessively , leading to weak , broken shoots .
4. Letting Sprouts Grow Too Long
Sprouts over2 cm ( 1 inch)becomeeasily damagedwhen planting .
5. Storing in a Damp Area
Excess wet can causemold , moulder , or disease , ruining your seed Solanum tuberosum .
Conclusion
When to start chitting potatoesdepends on your chosen variety and local growing conditions . Bystarting at the right time , providingideal conditions , and avoiding common fault , you’re able to ensurehealthy sprout , stronger plants , and a better harvest .
Chitting is a simple yet effective way tomaximize your white potato craw , making it a must for anyallotment nurseryman or home growerlooking forearly , rich yield .
Top 10 Questions and Answers About When to Start Chitting Potatoes
1. Do I need to chit potatoes?
Yes , especially forfirst and second earlies , as it helps speed up sprouting and meliorate yields .
2. What happens if I don’t chit my potatoes?
They will still arise , but they maytake longer to sprout , delaying growth and harvest time .
3. Can I start chitting potatoes in December?
No , this is too early . sprout may becometoo long and weakbefore planting .
4. How long should I chit my potatoes?
Typically4 - 6 weeksbefore planting , depend on miscellanea .
5. Can I plant potatoes without chitting?
Yes , but chitting grant them afaster , healthier start .
6. What if my potatoes sprout too much before planting?
If sprouts exceed2 cm ( 1 inch ) , softly remove the longest ones , leaving3 - 4 strong shoots .
7. Can I chit potatoes in a dark cupboard?
No ! Darkness causesweak , blank shootsthat wo n’t do well .
8. Can I chit potatoes in a greenhouse?
Yes , but ensureit ’s frost - freeand does n’t get too tender on sunny days .
9. Should I water my chitted potatoes?
No ! Moistureincreases the risk of decomposition . Keep them teetotal .
10. Can I chit cut seed potatoes?
No , alwayschit whole white potato vine . If cutting , do sojust before constitute .
Check your inbox or junk e-mail folder to confirm your subscription .
Related
percentage :
