Lifting potatoes is one of the pleasures of an allotment or garden, and homegrown crops offer flavours and colours rarely found in shops. Even a modest patch can produce a worthwhile harvest.

When and how to sow

Plant certified seed potatoes from March to May, once the soil is workable and no longer waterlogged. Start first earlies earlier in milder areas, with second earlies and maincrops following. Chit tubers in a cool, bright frost-free place before planting, and protect emerging shoots from frost with soil, fleece or a cloche.

Care

Grow potatoes in full sun in fertile, free-draining soil. Earth up soil around stems as they grow, preventing tubers from turning green in the light. Water during dry spells, especially as tubers begin to swell, but avoid soaking the ground.

Common problems

Potato blight, scab, slugs and wireworm can affect crops. Rotate the potato bed, use clean seed tubers, remove volunteers and avoid growing potatoes in the same ground repeatedly. Remove any diseased foliage promptly, and seek RHS or local garden centre advice if blight is suspected.

Harvest

Lift first and second early potatoes when plants flower, or after flowering, for tender new potatoes. Leave maincrops until the tops have died back, then lift on a dry day. Dry tubers briefly before storing sound, undamaged potatoes somewhere cool, dark and frost-free.

Growing Potatoes: frequently asked questions

When should I sow potatoes in the UK?

Plant certified seed potatoes from March to May, once the soil is workable and no longer waterlogged.

What are common problems when growing potatoes?

Potato blight, scab, slugs and wireworm can affect crops.

When is potatoes ready to harvest?

Lift first and second early potatoes when plants flower, or after flowering, for tender new potatoes.

General guidance for UK home gardens and allotments. Reference figures are typical values; your exact timing depends on your region, last-frost date and variety. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.