Plant certified seed potatoes and hill them up as they grow for a rewarding underground harvest. Easy in beds, bags or pots — and homegrown new potatoes are a revelation.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 60 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Potato
Solanum tuberosum is a fast-growing edible plant in the Solanaceae family. It reaches around 60 cm tall at maturity.
Where to grow Potato
Potato suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Potato does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Potato does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Potato in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. For most gardens, maintenance is low maintenance.
Using Potato in the garden
Potato earns its place for edible harvests and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Potato sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Potato
Plant Sale lists Potato as tube stock and seedlings. Availability is confirmed when you request a quote; use the panel above to register interest.
