Potatoes are among the most productive vegetables in the home garden. With the right variety, loose soil, and regular weeding, surprisingly high yields can be achieved even in small spaces – in garden beds, raised beds, or even pots.

🌿 1️⃣ Use seed potatoes instead of table potatoes
Use certified seed potatoes. These are:

Low disease resistance
Stable yield
Purebred

Early potatoes are particularly suitable for beginners.

☀️ 2️⃣ Suitable Location
At least 6 hours of sun per day
Loose, humus-rich soil
Good drainage (no waterlogging)
Optimal pH: slightly acidic to neutral (approx. 5.5–6.5).

🌱 3️⃣ Pre-germination for a faster start
3–4 weeks before planting:

Store in a bright, cool place (10–15 °C). Allow short, sturdy seedlings to develop.

This accelerates growth after planting.

🪴 4️⃣ Proper Planting
Planting depth: 8–10 cm
Planting distance: 30–35 cm
Row spacing: 60–70 cm
In pots: at least 30 liters per plant.

🏔️ 5️⃣ Digging – the key to a bountiful harvest

When the plants are 15–20 cm tall:

Dig up the soil around the plants.

Leave only the leaf tips visible.

Repeat this process 2–3 times.

More soil = more space for tuber formation.

💧 6️⃣ Water evenly
Water regularly, especially during tuber formation.

Keep the soil moist, but not wet. Irregular watering can lead to small or cracked tubers.

🌿 7️⃣ Fertilize moderately
Potatoes are sensitive to too much nitrogen.

Incorporate compost before planting. A potassium-rich fertilizer promotes tuber growth.

⏳ 8️⃣ Recognizing the Harvest Time
Early potatoes: about 8–10 weeks after planting
Storage potatoes: when the leaves have completely died back
After the leaves have died back, leave the potatoes in the ground for about 2 weeks – this hardens the skin.

🌾 Conclusion
With plenty of sun, loose soil, and regular hoeing, potatoes are among the most rewarding crops for beginners. Even on a balcony or patio, considerable yields can be achieved.

A simple start – and in the end, a surprisingly large potato harvest from your own garden.