Potatoes are one of the most popular vegetables in our countries. It is very important to properly prepare the soil before planting for a rich potato harvest to enjoy the high quality harvest.
Even if you have fertile land, additional efforts will help create optimal conditions for root development and tuber formation. In this article we will discuss the main stages of land preparation of potatoes.
Soil preparation for a large potato harvest: selection of the right place
First, choose the right place to plant the potatoes. They like sunny, open places. Growing potatoes in the shade may be smaller and less fertile. It is also important to consider the crop rotation.
Potatoes are not recommended for planting in the same place for several consecutive years, as well as after other potato family plants (tomatoes, eggplant, peppers) because they have common diseases and pests.
The best pre -crushed potatoes are legumes, cereals, sideratures (green fertilizer grown).
Soil analysis (recommended)
Ideally, soil analysis should be performed before preparing the soil. This will help determine its acidity (pH) and nutrients. Potatoes grow best in weak or neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0).
If the soil is too acidic, autumn or early spring, lime should be inserted. If certain nutrients are missing, fertilizers should be compensated.
Autumn preparatory work (preferably)
It is best to start preparing the soil in the autumn of the potatoes. After harvesting:
- Remove weeds and plant residues: Thoroughly clean the future potato bed from the remains of all weed roots and other plants. This will help prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
- Remove the soil: Buy the ground deeply (about 25-30 cm deep). This will improve soil aeration, water permeability and facilitate root growth. It is recommended to buy heavy, clayey soil with coarse sand or compost to make it more fluffy.
- Fertilize with organic fertilizers: In the autumn you can insert rotten manure or compost (about 5-10 kg/sq.m) into the soil. Organic fertilizers will not only enrich the soil with nutrients, but will also improve its structure.
Soil preparation for large potato harvest: spring preparatory work
In the spring, just before planting:
- Align the soil: As soon as the Earth has begun and is suitable for work, level the future bed with a rake. Remove the resulting weeds and the resulting clumps.
- Purge the soil: If the earth has been lying after winter, lightly shake it with a cultivator or fork. This will improve the air from future tubers again.
- Fertilization with mineral fertilizers (if necessary): Depending on the results of the soil analysis or your experience, you can insert complex mineral fertilizers for potatoes. Spread the fertilizer evenly and lightly insert the rake into the soil. Avoid direct fertilizer contact with planting tubers.
- Form the beds (recommended): It is convenient for potatoes to grow in raised beds. They are better warmed up, better drainage, and then convenient to cover the plants. The height of the beds can be about 15-20 cm and the width is depending on the planting scheme.
Soil preparation for a large potato harvest: planting scheme
Before planting, think about the planting scheme. Most often, 60-70 cm is left between the rows and the distance between the tubers is 25-35 cm. The depth of planting depends on the soil type: 8-10 cm in light soils, 5-7 cm in heavy soils.
Proper soil preparation is one of the most important factors that determine abundant and healthy potato harvest.
By allocating time and effort to prepare the land in the fall and spring, you will create optimal conditions for the growth and development of potatoes, and your labor will be rewarded with a rich and high quality harvest.
Remember to consider the peculiarities of your soil and choose the most appropriate preparation methods. Successful potato growing!
Source: https://www.bc.ua/
Photos associative © canva
Hi, I’m a Kamil, Hitas.lt author. The passion for cooking, home coziness and personal well -being inspires me to share discoveries – recipes and tips on love for myself – with you, dear readers.
