When it comes to gardening at our house, every year we plant and harvest different fruits, vegetables and plants. It’s early in the season, but for our particular planting zone, the time is right for planting potatoes!  We use potatoes as much as any other American family.  Take a moment to see just how we do it.

Supplies

Egg Carton.

Cotton Balls

Potato Sprouts

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“Chitting” is a farming term used to prep a potato before planting.  It is the process of pre-sprouting your potatoes.  When placed in a cool place with sunlight, potatoes will naturally begin to sprout. Take your potatoes that have small sprouts.  Place a tiny amount of water into each egg carton hole and put a potato into it.  It’s good to remember that if a potato is slightly wrinkly, it is in need of moisture, this process will help it.  It will also get your sprout to grow.  If your potato is too big for this little cup, cut your potato into fourths.  It will still work and sprout.

Potatoes will only grow in full sunlight

This is a myth, potatoes will grow very well in full sun, but it is possible to also place your planted potatoes into a cool, dark place and still have them grow!

Potatoes cause obesity.  This myth was debunked because potatoes are so good for you.  It is only when a potato is improperly cooked that it can lead to higher calories, which lead to obesity.  https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57c09c7ff5e23182b3d282e7/t/5ca7a53253450a44411f4522/1554490675424/May-Potato+Myths+Busted.pdf

 

Place onions or apples next to the “chitting” sprouts for faster growth!

Place your sprouting potatoes in a warm, but dark location to trigger their growth process.

Once the sprouts have begun to grow, move them to a cooler location, with some light.  It should be around 50 degrees Fahrenheit.  The light should begin to turn your sprouts into green leafy ones.

Once the sprouts have reached 2-3 inches in length, they will be ready for planting.

Cut your potato sprouts into “egg sized” segments.  Allow them to heal for 3 days.  They will appear to have a leathery and dry to the touch. They’re ready to plant. (Optional) you may also place the ends of the cut segments into wood ash to help the process).

Once your potatoes have grown and you’re ready to eat them, avoid peeling them.  Peeling them prior to boiling can actually remove a lot of the nutrients.  Wait for your water to come to a boil, first, then add them for quicker cooking time and keeping your Vitamin C content.

Stick to baking, steaming or air frying.  By frying your potatoes, you are removing 75% of its Vitamin C.

 

Potatoes can be stored, year round.

Improved memory https://www.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2805706

Potatoes are rich in Vitamin C.

Potatoes are a great source for fiber.

They are a great resource for promoting digestion https://www.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov