First, Second and Maincrop Potatoes

From the second we got the keys to our allotment, the first question we got asked was “What potatoes are you going to grow?”. I soon realised I had to choose between first, second and maincrop potatoes. But what’s the difference?

Here in the UK there are three types of potatoes. First early (new), second early (also new) & maincrop potatoes. First and second earlies are generally planted at the same time but the seconds are harvested a few weeks after the firsts. Giving a continued supply of new potatoes from June through to July. Maincrop takes longer to grow but can be stored for a few months.

First Early Potatoes

First early potatoes take 10 – 12 weeks to grow. Plant in March with frost protection. This can be done with fleece supported via a frame making sure not to touch the plant as this can transfer frost onto the foliage. Harvest in June – July.

Some varieties are: Red Duke of York, Lady Christl, Rocket, Home Guard & Pentland Javelin.

Click here for First Early Seed Potatoes

Second Early Potatoes

Second early potatoes take 14 – 16 weeks to grow, planted in March with frost protection. (See above) Harvest July –
August

Some varieties are: Charlotte, Maris Peer, Ratte, Nicola, Jazzy & Marfona

Click here for Second Early Seed Potatoes

MainCrop Potatoes

Maincrop potatoes take 16 – 22 weeks to grow, are planted mid to late April and harvested from August to October.

Some varieties are Pink Fir Apple, Desiree, Cara, Maris Piper, King Edward and Sarpo Mira.

Click here for Maincrop Seed Potatoes

Chitting Potatoes

Have you ever seen weird looking green potato eyes peeping at you from the supermarket or vegetable shop? Chitting potatoes is not some strange cult ritual but rather a process of preparing potatoes for growth in your home garden.

Essentially chitting potatoes causes sprouting – or growth of new shoots from the seed potato, or eyes of the potatoes. Chitting may begin between four and eight weeks prior to planting. . Chitting is especially useful for gardeners living in colder regions where early spring leaves less room for error. Chitted potatoes are easier to plant because the plants have already begun to grow. Chitting seed potatoes allows you to plant them at an optimal time, which helps reduces the risk of frost damage. Chitting results in stronger, healthier plants that produce larger yields. You can expect yields to be increased by around five to 10% compared to normal seed tubers.

First Second and Maincrop Potatoes | Conclusion

So, what type of potatoes should you grow? If you want new potatoes throughout the summer then go for first and second earlies. If you want to store your spuds for a few months then go for maincrop. It really is that simple! Let me know in the comments below what variety of potato you are going to grow this year. Happy gardening!

Finally, We have more helpful videos over on our Youtube page, please check them out!!