Why stop watering before potato harvest?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Halting irrigation before harvesting potatoes creates vital dry soil conditions that protect the tubers from damage. I have harvested after a rain and watched half my harvest rot away in the next couple of weeks. Dry soil reduces bruising while digging, and it also encourages the potatoes to develop a natural protective layer.
Skin Development
- Dry conditions trigger natural suberin production
- Thickened skins resist damage during digging
- Protective layers reduce moisture loss in storage
Harvest Efficiency
- Dry soil crumbles away cleanly from tubers
- Reduces soil compaction on potato surfaces
- Allows easier separation of tubers from vines
Disease Prevention
- Lower moisture inhibits fungal spore activation
- Reduces bacterial soft rot transmission risk
- Creates unfavorable conditions for common blights
Suberin development is maximized in dry soil conditions. This natural wax seals micro-traumas on tubers. The cessation of moisture instigates this protective response. Since I began this practice, my harvested potatoes have been stored months longer.
Soil type indicates precise water stoppage timing. Sandy soils require up to 10 days while clay soils require 14. I use the squeeze test for my soil: soil that develops properly dries and crumbly when squeezed. This easy check keeps me from making a harvest mistake.
Try this strategy on your next harvest! Stop watering according to your potato variety's maturity date! I note on my calendar two weeks before harvest. You'll be amazed at the quality improvement; your potatoes will be firmer and last longer.
Read the full article: 7 Essential Signs When to Harvest Potatoes
