Potato Tubers,
Purple Majesty

Plant Purple Majesty potatoes in early spring, 2 to 4 weeks before your last frost, once soil temperatures reach at least 45°F; the seed tubers sit safely below ground and the shoots emerge after frost danger has passed. In warmer climates, a fall planting is also possible. Check your local region’s frost-free dates to ensure proper planting time. To better understand frost dates in your area, read our blog post, ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’

Unlike regular seed potatoes, micro tubers should not be cut before planting. Plant the whole micro tubers about 2 inches deep, spaced 12 to 18 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart. Cover the tubers with soil, and as the plants grow, hill up soil around the base of the stems to encourage additional tuber formation and protect the potatoes from sunlight, which can cause greening. Use loose soil or straw for hilling, ensuring the plants have ample room to grow.

Water deeply once or twice a week, keeping soil evenly moist but not soggy. Hill soil around the stems when plants reach 6 inches tall to encourage higher yields. Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer every few weeks. Monitor for pests like potato beetles and use crop rotation to prevent soil-borne diseases.

• Potatoes will fruit, but the seeds will not breed true. That is why potatoes are propagated from tubers instead of seeds.
• Provide ideal storage conditions in order to keep your tubers over winter until the following spring planting date.
• Be sure to cure tubers before storing, and store cured tubers in a cool, dark, dry location. Ideal storage temperature is 38-40 F.
• Provide good air circulation in your storage area to discourage rot.
• Watch this video for a look at how we plant potatoes at Baker Creek.