Maincrop
Maincrop potatoes are a type of potato that are grown for storage and are typically harvested later in the season, usually around 16-20 weeks after planting. They have a thicker skin and are more resistant to diseases, which make them ideal for long-term storage. They are real all-purpose potatoes, such as the Desirée or Maris Piper, but are typically used for roasting, baking, mashing and chipping. Explore our range of Maincrop Seed Potatoes here in our online shop and enjoy free delivery within a five mile radius.
Grow Your Own! | Free delivery within 5 mile radius | 1.5Kg = 10 potatoes/seeding | Harvest 16-20 weeks from planting
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What is a Maincrop Potato?
Maincrop potatoes are a type of potato that are grown for storage and are typically harvested later in the season, usually around 120-150 days after planting. They are usually planted at a lower density than first or second early potatoes and are typically larger in size. They have a thicker skin and are more resistant to diseases, which make them ideal for long-term storage. They are typically used for roasting, baking, mashing, and chipping. Some examples of maincrop potato varieties are:
- King Edward: a traditional variety that is good for baking, roasting, and mashing
- Desiree: a good all-purpose variety that is good for boiling, roasting, and mashing
- Golden Wonder: a floury variety that is good for chipping and roasting
- Maris Piper: a floury variety that is good for chipping and roasting
How do you grow maincrop potatoes in your garden?
Growing maincrop potatoes in your garden is relatively easy and can be done using the following steps:
- Choose a location: Maincrop potatoes prefer well-drained, fertile soil in moderate sun.
- Prepare the soil: Before planting, work organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil. This will help to improve the soil structure and fertility.
- Planting: Maincrop potatoes are typically planted in late spring, after the last frost. Plant the seed potatoes 15-20cm deep and 60cm apart, in trenches or holes.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season.
- Hilling: As the plants grow, mound soil up around the stems to keep the developing tubers covered. This will also help to prevent greening of the tubers.
- Harvesting: Maincrop potatoes are typically ready to harvest around 120-150 days after planting. Carefully dig around the base of the plant with a fork to harvest the tubers. Leave the tubers to dry out in the sun for a few hours before storing them in a cool, dark place.
It's a good idea to rotate your crops to different parts of your garden each year to help prevent disease build-up and maintain soil health. For more tips and tricks on how to plant maincrop potatoes, we direct you to our blog.
Blog: Sowing and Growing Maincrop Potatoes
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