Growing potatoes in containers is one of my favorite things! My mom has been a seamstress for more than 3 decades, and she taught me how to make grow bags for my garden. It’s super easy if you follow the right steps. They are super productive and take up a really low space which makes them suitable for almost any growing space.
Potatoes are delicious and also a staple in our kitchen. We love eating potatoes. From soups to plant-based pizza, and even roasted potatoes, they really make every meal enjoyable.
Why Grow Potatoes in a Container?
Growing your own potatoes ensures they are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals, providing you with the healthiest option possible. Plus, container gardening allows you to control the soil quality and watering, leading to a better yield. You can expect small new potatoes as early as 10 weeks, but on average, potatoes should mature in 70 to 90 days, depending on the variety.
Getting Started With What You’ll Need And Step-By-Step Procedure:
Grow bags and Potatoes
- 100% cotton fabric material or similar
- Sewing machine
- Compost mix
- Chit potatoes
- Mulch (straw or similar)
Kindly follow these simple steps
- Choose your tomatoes
- Get a 100% cotton fabric material or similar
- Measure and cut it rectangularly according to the size that you deem fit
- Fold it in half and sew the open side
- Sew an X at the bottom then turn it upside down
- Fold and sew the upper border
- Add compost mix and fill up your grow bag
- Chit potatoes and make some holes
- Add worm casting (optional)
- Add one potato to each hole and cover with compost
- Mulch with straw and water it
Note: Chitting potatoes means forcing them to sprout before they are in the ground. Place them in an egg carton with a pointy side facing down and round side up. Keep them in a cool, bright area until they sprout.
As a reference, you can plant 1-2 potatoes in 5 gallons, 2-4 potatoes in 10 gallons, and 4-6 potatoes in 15 gallons.
Health Benefits of Potatoes
Potatoes are often misunderstood as merely starchy comfort food, but they offer significant health benefits such as…
- Rich in Nutrients: Potatoes are packed with vitamins C and B6, essential for immune function and brain health.
- Potassium Powerhouse: They contain more potassium than bananas, helping to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
- High in Fiber: Potatoes, especially with the skin on, provide a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut.
- Antioxidant-Rich: Potatoes contain antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenoids, which help protect your cells from damage.
Harvesting Your Potatoes
The nicest part of growing potatoes is the harvest. You’ll know it’s time when the foliage begins to yellow and die back, which normally occurs around 10-12 weeks. To harvest, simply empty the container and sift through the soil to get your potatoes. Please be gentle to prevent bruising them.
Once collected, keep the potatoes in a cold, dark area. They can survive several months if properly preserved. And if you’re ready to enjoy them, the options are endless. From baked potatoes to homemade fries, homegrown potatoes will taste fresher and more flavorful than store-bought potatoes.
Happy growing!
