Potato Chitting: How and Why.

 

Chitting is basically “pre-sprouting” and was always done by the old-timers in order to promote earlier growth and, therefore, earlier harvest. Some modern-day gardeners question the usefulness of this practice, but it is always fun to watch the potatoes’ progress on the windowsill!

Chitting is a method of preparing potatoes or other tubers for planting. The seed potatoes are placed in a tray (often in egg cartons) in a light and cool place. All but three or four of the "eyes" (sprouting parts) of the potato are removed, leaving the strongest growths only. I usually cut each potato into several sections, according to how big they are.  That way each potato can provide several potato plants.  After the sprouts are about 1 inch long, the pieces are planted in the ground.   Here the recommended planting time is late February – mid March. when the soil temperature is consistently around 50 degrees F).  Plant each potato or section shoot side up about 1 to 3 inches deep and as the plant grows, hill up the earth around them so by the time they are ready to harvest they will be growing inside nice, raised lines.  They should be spaced 12 to 18 inches apart.

Did you know you can grow potatoes in containers or even grocery shopping bags?

We used to have to recycle plastic grocery bags before we started using and amassing all those advertising tote bags that are given away by organizations at events! Try cutting some drainage holes in the bags, filling about 4-6 inches of compost/potting soil in the bottom, add seed potato pieces about 6” apart lightly covered and pressed down. Keep bag moist but not soggy. When the shoots are about 3-4 inches tall, add another 4-6 inches of growing medium, completely covering the leaves and everything. Repeat until the bag is full. Continue to keep moist; when flowers appear that is a sign of tuber growth. Don’t over-water at this time because that will cause rapid growth and you’ll miss those small new potatoes that taste so delicious with butter and mint! You can cut a larger hole in the bag and gently feel to see if you have tubers to harvest. The soil shouldn’t fall out at this time because the roots should hold it all together. When the leaves start to wilt and turn brown it will be time to empty the bag and see what you have! One word of caution! If you have the bags sitting on bare soil, you might be setting up an Ant Air BnB!!!! Find a way to keep bags somewhat elevated, then enjoy the harvest!