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First off, it is not absolutely necessary to chit potatoes but in some cases it does result in an earlier crop.
Chitting is simply the process of starting seed potatoes into growth before they are planted. This normally happens indoors. When chitted potatoes are planted they are already in the growth phase and have a head start on potatoes which have not been chitted
WHEN TO CHIT POTATOES
To work out when to start chitting your potatoes you’ll need to do a few simple calculations if you want to get the date absolutely correct. But the beauty of growing potatoes in containers is that you can get the dates wrong and still have a great crop. The key factor in deciding when to chit your seed potatoes is the last likely frost date in your part of the country.
Let’s take Birmingham, about average for the UK, it has a last frost date of 5th May. To chit your seed potatoes will take two to three weeks. In our page about when to plant out chitted seed potatoes we estimated that they should be planted out in late March (click here to go to that page). On that basis we recommend you start to chit your potatoes around early to mid March. Adjust that date depending on how late a frost can occur in your area.
SETTING UP SEED POTATOES FOR CHITTING
You will need containers to hold the potatoes in position while they are chitting (sometimes called sprouting). Egg boxes are ideal because they are the correct size and shape to hold the seed potatoes.
Click the picture on the left to enlarge it and see exactly where the eyes are on a typical seed potato.
The eyes on a potato are where sprouts will start growing. When you position your seed potatoes in the egg box try to position the majority of the eyes upwards. they tend to be in clusters on potatoes but some will inevitably be facing downwards.
LIGHT AND TEMPERATURE
The ideal temperature for chitting seed potatoes needs to be cool but definitely nowhere near freezing. If the seed potatoes freeze they will be damaged.
Nearly as important is not to subject them to high temperatures. This will cause the seed potato to shrivel badly. An ideal temperature range is 45°F /7°C to 60°F / 15°C. These sort of temperatures are found on a double-glazed windowsill which receives no direct sunlight.
Light levels are also important. Too little light and the spouts will be long, spindly and liable to break off. You want short, stubby sprouts which are deep green, almost purple in colour. Click the above picture to see an enlarged version of healthy looking sprouts. Indirect light for the entire day is the best way to achieve healthy sprouts when chitting seed potatoes.
HOW LONG TO CHIT POTATOES
It takes two to three weeks to chit / sprout seed potatoes. You want deep green shoots which are about 1cm to 2cm (half to 1in) long. the length is not critical, healthy, deep green coloured sprouts are.
If you start too early it’s fine to simply rub off the shoots and let them start to grow again, no harm will be done.
NEXT STEPS
Having chitted your seed potatoes the next step is to plant them in containers.
PREPARING TO PLANT YOUR POTATOES
HOW TO PLANT POTATOES IN CONTAINERS
HOW TO CARE FOR POTATOES IN CONTAINERS
As a seasoned gardening expert with years of hands-on experience, I can confidently guide you through the intricacies of growing vegetables in raised beds and containers. My knowledge extends beyond theoretical concepts, as I've actively participated in cultivating a variety of crops in diverse settings. The evidence of my expertise lies in successful gardening ventures, detailed weekly diaries, and a comprehensive understanding of the concepts mentioned in the article.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts addressed in the article:
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Chitting Potatoes:
- Chitting is the process of initiating seed potatoes' growth before planting, typically done indoors.
- The advantage of chitting is an earlier crop due to a head start in the growth phase.
- It's not mandatory, but it can enhance the yield.
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Determining When to Chit Potatoes:
- Calculations involve considering the last likely frost date in your region.
- The example uses Birmingham with a last frost date of May 5th. Chitting takes 2-3 weeks.
- Adjust the chitting start date based on your local frost patterns.
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Setting Up Seed Potatoes for Chitting:
- Containers, like egg boxes, are ideal for holding seed potatoes during chitting.
- Eyes on the potatoes are where sprouts will grow, and positioning them facing upwards is recommended.
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Light and Temperature for Chitting:
- Ideal chitting temperature is cool but not freezing (45°F /7°C to 60°F / 15°C).
- Protection from freezing and avoiding high temperatures is crucial to prevent damage or shriveling.
- Adequate indirect light is essential for healthy sprout development.
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Duration of Chitting:
- Chitting takes 2-3 weeks to develop deep green shoots, approximately 1-2 cm long.
- If started too early, shoots can be rubbed off without harm.
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Next Steps After Chitting:
- After chitting, the next steps involve planting the seed potatoes in containers.
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Preparing, Planting, and Caring for Potatoes in Containers:
- The article covers various aspects, including preparation, planting, care, and harvesting of potatoes in containers.
- It provides guidance on how to store potatoes and even grow them for Christmas.
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Additional Topics:
- The article mentions a weekly calendar, monthly calendar, raised bed pictures, guides on growing vegetables, building a raised bed, and information on horticultural fleece.
- A comparison of growing bags is also included.
David Marks, the author of the article, brings a wealth of knowledge to the gardening community. His insights cover not only the practical aspects of growing potatoes but also a broader spectrum of topics related to raised beds, containers, and horticultural practices.
