This post was updated with new information February 15, 2022.
Whether you are short on growing space or wanting to try a new growing method, growing potatoes in containers is an easy way to add some delicious spuds to your garden.
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Why grow potatoes in containers?
Minimal Space Required
If you don’t have the space for an inground garden, or raised beds, but you have at least some outside space, you can grow your own potatoes in containers. One 5 gallon grow bag will use one square foot of space and will still give you at least a couple dozen fresh potatoes.
No rot
Potatoes, like most plants, will rot if they sit in water. When you grow potatoes in containers you have better control over the watering situation. If you have poor draining soil, growing in containers would be your best option to grow healthy potatoes.
No digging
When growing potatoes in ground, you need to dig to plant, and dig to harvest. When grown in containers there is no digging involved.
No pests
Many people have waited months to harvest their root crops only to find them partially or completely eaten by pests and animals. Animals and pests will have a harder time at getting to the potatoes since the won’t have easy underground access.
What types of potatoes can you grow?
Certain varieties of potatoes do exceptionally well in containers, while others need more growing space.
Consider container friendly options to maximize your harvest potential.
Some varieties to try are Yukon Gold, Purple Majesty, German Butterball and Red Pontiac.
How to grow potatoes in containers
Here’s what you need:
- A 5 gallon or larger container/grow bag (I like using these)
- Seed potatoes
- Small rocks (enough to cover the bottom two inches of the container)
- A mixture of loose potting soil and garden soil
Tip: Have some potatoes growing eyes in the kitchen? Try planting them!
What to do:
- Plan to plant potatoes 2-3 weeks before your last fast date. Potatoes grow best in cooler weather.
- Drill drainage holes in the bottom of your container. (Not necessary if using a grow bag or if the container already has holes.)
- Fill the bottom two inches of a container with small rocks. This helps to improve drainage. (Also not necessary if using grow bags.)
- Pour in few inches of the soil mixture and then place the seed potatoes into the soil. Pour in more soil, just enough to cover the potatoes. Water them thoroughly once planted.
- As the potatoes grow, cover with more soil, leaving just the tops of the green leaves showing. Continue this process as the plants grow until the container is full.
Caring for:
Keep your container in a sunny location and water when the top inch of soil is dry. Don’t keep the soil wet, as it will cause the potatoes to rot.
Harvesting:
Potatoes will be ready for harvest after they flower and the leaves die back. Some plants may never flower, that is ok. They will still provide you with potatoes.
To harvest, simply turn over the container and collect your potatoes.
Happy gardening! Until next time –
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