Why You Should Cut Potatoes Before Planting and How to Plant Them

1. Materials Needed: Seed potatoes, sharp knife, containers with well-draining soil, compost/fertilizer, watering can.

2. Steps:

_ Select healthy seed potatoes with multiple eyes.

_ Cut them into 1-2 inch pieces with at least 1-2 eyes each.

_ Let the cut pieces cure for 1-2 days to reduce the risk of rotting.

_ Prepare a sunny, well-draining planting area and amend the soil with compost.

_ Plant the potato pieces in holes or trenches, eyes facing up, and cover with soil.

_ Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

_ Mound soil around the base of the plants as they grow to encourage tuber development.

_ Monitor for pests and diseases, treating as necessary.

_ Harvest when the foliage starts to yellow and die back, being careful not to damage the potatoes.

Following these steps ensures a successful harvest of home-grown potatoes, maximizing yield and promoting plant health.