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Chitting is a simple yet effective way to prepare seed potatoes for planting by encouraging them to sprout beforehand. This process provides the potatoes with an initial growth boost, allowing them to establish more quickly once planted. It’s particularly helpful in climates where the growing season may be limited, giving your crop a better chance to thrive. By starting the sprouting process in a controlled environment, you can also minimise the risk of frost damage to your young plants, as they will already have a head start when conditions are more favourable.
When to Start Chitting
The timing of chitting depends largely on your local climate and the growing habits of the potato variety you’ve chosen. Begin chitting once the risk of frost in your area has passed, which for many locations means late winter or early spring. This allows the seed potatoes to develop sturdy shoots in time for planting when the soil has warmed sufficiently. While early varieties benefit from a head start, maincrop potatoes typically require a slightly later schedule. Be mindful not to start too early, as overly long sprouts can make planting more challenging and may reduce the quality of the yield. Keeping an eye on the weather and planning accordingly will help ensure your chitting process aligns with optimal planting conditions.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
Selecting appropriate seed potatoes is essential for achieving a successful harvest. Opt for certified seed potatoes rather than supermarket ones, as the latter may carry diseases and are often treated to inhibit sprouting. Seed potatoes are carefully grown to ensure they are disease-free and suitable for cultivation, making them the preferred choice for gardeners.
Consider the variety that best suits your growing needs. Early or first earlies, such as ‘Rocket’ or ‘Swift’, are ideal for a quick turnaround and are often ready to harvest in as little as ten weeks after planting. These are a great choice if you are looking to enjoy new potatoes early in the season. For those seeking potatoes with versatile cooking uses or for long-term storage, maincrop varieties like ‘King Edward’ or ‘Maris Piper’ are excellent options.
When buying seed potatoes, inspect them for visible signs of health. Look for firm potatoes with several healthy ‘eyes’ or buds, as these are the points from which sprouts will emerge. Avoid any that appear shrivelled or show signs of mould or rot. Purchasing from a reputable supplier ensures that the potatoes have been stored and handled properly, reducing the risk of introducing problems into your garden.
Steps for Successful Chitting
Arrange your seed potatoes in a shallow tray or similar container, ensuring the eyes face upwards to allow the shoots to develop freely. Keep them in a cool and well-lit location with a consistent temperature between 10°C and 21°C. Adequate light is essential, as it helps produce sturdy, green shoots rather than weak, pale ones. Avoid positioning them in direct sunlight, as excessive heat can negatively affect the sprouting process. Ensure there is sufficient space between the potatoes to allow for proper air circulation, reducing the risk of mould or decay. Regularly check on them, removing any that show signs of rot to prevent the issue from spreading.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overwatering is a frequent issue when storing seed potatoes for chitting. Excess moisture can lead to rot, so it’s important to ensure the environment remains dry yet well-ventilated. Another error gardeners make is exposing seed potatoes to excessive heat, which can dry them out or cause irregular sprouting. Always aim for a steady, cool temperature within the recommended range to encourage healthy growth.
Failing to provide enough light during the chitting process is another mistake that results in weak, pale shoots rather than sturdy, green ones. While seed potatoes should not be left in direct sunlight, a well-lit area is crucial for promoting robust growth. Additionally, turning a blind eye to health problems during chitting can have repercussions later. For instance, ignoring early signs of rot or disease may lead to infected plants once they are transferred to the garden.
Improper handling of sprouted seed potatoes is another misstep to avoid. The shoots can be fragile, so care must be taken during planting to prevent breaking or damaging them. Planting sprouted potatoes too deeply or too shallowly can also hinder their performance; ensure they are positioned at the correct depth based on their variety.
Finally, reusing containers without cleaning them properly between uses can introduce pathogens or mould. Sanitising trays or boxes before setting up your chitting area helps reduce risks and ensures a healthy start for your crop.
Planting Chitted Potatoes
To plant your chitted potatoes, ensure the soil is well-drained and prepared with adequate nutrients to support healthy growth. Position the potatoes with their shoots facing upwards, taking care not to damage the sprouts during handling. Early varieties require around 30cm spacing between each potato, while maincrop types need up to 40cm to allow sufficient room for tuber development.
Dig a trench or individual holes approximately 10-15cm deep to accommodate the potatoes. Place them gently into the prepared soil, ensuring the sprouts remain upright. Once planted, cover the potatoes with soil and lightly firm it down to secure them in place. To maintain soil moisture and minimise weed growth, applying a layer of mulch can be particularly beneficial.
As the plants begin to grow, gradually mound or earth up soil around the base of the stems. This helps to shield the developing tubers from direct sunlight, which can cause them to turn green and become inedible. The process also encourages a stronger root system and supports an increased yield.
Regular watering is vital, particularly during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Monitoring the plants for signs of pests or diseases throughout the growing period can help to address any issues promptly. With proper care and attention, your chitted potatoes will flourish, providing a satisfying and rewarding harvest.
