How long until potatoes are ready for harvest?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Knowing when to harvest is crucial to avoid either digging potatoes too early or ruining them in the ground. Early varieties, such as Norland, are ready in about 70 to 90 days after planting, while late types, like Russets, take roughly 110 to 140 days. I write the dates of planting on the calendar so I can observe growth progress from week to week. Weather plays a great part in the speed of growth.
New Potatoes
- Ready 2-3 weeks after flowering begins
- Skin rubs off easily with thumb pressure
- Plants still green with active growth
Mature Potatoes
- 90-100% vine dieback signals full maturity
- Thick skins resist peeling when rubbed
- Tubers separate cleanly from roots
New potato ready in about 2 weeks after flowering starts. Examine with hands by gingerly digging beside the plants. Don't lift these until needed for eating. They do not keep well. For old potatoes...wait until the whole vine is nicely yellow and wilted down. Try one plant first.
Digging fork. Use a fork placed a foot or so from the plant. Lift slowly and carefully, being cautious not to pierce tubers. I wear gloves when removing potatoes so skin dirt and oils don't affect the keeping quality. Do not wash potatoes; brush the soil off. Never drop or bang potatoes, as the internal bruising causes them to rot.
Cure tubers for 10 to 14 days before storing, at a temperature of 60 to 65°F. Spread them out in a well-ventilated place in single layers. Store in complete darkness at a temperature of from 40 to 45 degrees F. Early varieties will keep for from one to two months, while other kinds may keep for six or eight months.
Read the full article: How to Grow Potatoes: Essential Gardening Guide
