Potatoes are an excellent choice for any gardener, as they can be grown by pretty much anyone without the need for heavy machinery or large spaces. However, these cool-season crops can struggle in high temperatures, leading to a decline in production. So, when is the best time to plant potatoes in Arkansas to ensure a successful harvest?
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The Ideal Planting Season in Arkansas
The planting season for potatoes in Arkansas typically begins around February 15 to early March in the southern parts of the state. For those in the northern areas, gardening starts shortly after, from early March to April. It’s worth noting that aside from spring, potatoes can also be grown in the fall from July 15 to August 1.
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To determine the specific planting time for your location, consider the following guidelines. For example, in Bentonville, Arkansas, which is in zone 6, the final frost occurs on April 19. In this case, gardeners can safely seed potatoes on April 20 or May 3. The latest potato planting time in Bentonville would be from June 2 to August 6, depending on the crop variety and its maturation period, which typically ranges from 75 to 140 days. Ultimately, the ability to grow potatoes in June, July, or August depends on your chosen cultivar and the arrival of winter.
Harvesting Potatoes in Arkansas
Knowing when to harvest your potatoes is essential for maximizing their flavor and yield. Look for signs such as the yellowing and withering of the foliage. Additionally, you can calculate the harvest time by adding the plant’s days to maturity to your seeding date and waiting accordingly.
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When it comes to collecting potatoes, here are a few helpful tips. First, gently dig around the plants with a fork or shovel to avoid damaging the tubers. Then, carefully remove the potatoes from the soil, ensuring you don’t bruise or cut them. Allow the potatoes to dry for a few hours before storing them in a cool, dark place to extend their shelf life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should I plant potatoes in Arkansas?
Potatoes should be planted at least two inches deep, but trenches that are four to six inches deep are also acceptable. As the tubers grow and increase in size, it’s a good practice to hill them up with about a foot of mulch or straw.
Should I Plant Potatoes in March in Arkansas?
Yes, you can plant potatoes in March in many parts of Arkansas. For instance, in Gosnell, which is in zone 7a, the final frost occurs on March 27. Therefore, it’s safe to seed potatoes there in late March or early April.
What are Good Days to Plant Potatoes in February?
The ideal planting dates in February may vary depending on your location. However, generally, February 10 to 17 are considered excellent times for growing potatoes. Keep in mind that these dates assume the weather has warmed up and the soil is workable. In states where the last frost occurs in April or May, planting potatoes in February is not feasible. This early planting is more suitable for warmer states like Georgia, Alabama, and Texas.
When should I plant sweet potatoes?
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For sweet potatoes, it’s recommended to wait until after the last frost or, to be safe, a month after it. In Arkansas, the ideal gardening window for sweet potatoes is from April 15 to May 20.
How do I grow purple potatoes in containers?
To cultivate purple potatoes in containers, start by slicing seed potatoes into small fragments. Each fragment should possess at least one eye or tiny protrusion, which is the site where a fresh plant will emerge. If the potatoes are already egg-sized, you can skip this step.
Once the potatoes are dried and cut, chit them by placing the sliced pieces in an egg tray with the eyes facing up. Keep them under indirect light at a temperature of 45 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit. After the potatoes form shoots, you can sow them. This process typically takes four to six weeks from chitting to planting.
Prepare a 10-gallon container that is at least two feet tall. Fill it with a peat-based potting mix and compost in a 1:1 ratio, to a depth of six to eight inches. Place the potatoes evenly throughout the container, spacing them 12 inches apart, and cover them with six inches of the planting mix. Water the container until the top one or two inches are damp, and ensure the purple potatoes receive six hours of sunlight per day.
Conclusion
Knowing when to plant potatoes in Arkansas is crucial for a successful harvest. By aligning your planting with your area’s frost dates, you can optimize your results. Additionally, it’s advisable to purchase certified disease-free potatoes from reputable sources like farmers’ markets or trusted online stores such as Gurney’s and Johnny’s Seeds. These high-quality potatoes will give you the best chance of success in your potato-growing endeavors, unlike those found in grocery stores.
Source: https://magnetmix.com
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