Second Early
Second early potatoes are a type of potato that are typically ready to harvest within 90-110 days after planting. They are usually a bit larger than first early potatoes, such as the Charlotte or Vivaldi, and are often planted a few weeks later than first early potatoes. Second Earlies are great potatoes for boiling, mashing, chipping and baking! Explore our range of Second Earlies 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 15-22 weeks from planting
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What is a Second Early Potato?
Second early potatoes are a type of potato that are typically ready to harvest within 90-110 days after planting. They are usually a bit larger than first early potatoes and are often planted a few weeks later than first early potatoes.
Second earlies are usually planted at a lower density than first early potatoes and are typically used for boiling and steaming, but can also be used for salads and new potatoes. Some examples of second early potato varieties are:
- Maris Bard: a high-yielding variety with good flavor and texture.
- Maris Peer: a waxy, thin-skinned variety that is good for salads and new potatoes
- British Queen: a good yielder, with a creamy texture and good flavor.
When to plant and harvest second early seed potatoes?
Second early seed potatoes should be planted in the spring, typically 2-4 weeks before the last frost date in your area. They should be ready to harvest approximately 10-12 weeks after planting, typically in June or July.
However, it is important to note that the exact timing can vary depending on the specific variety of potato, as well as the soil and weather conditions in your area. You can determine if the potatoes are ready to harvest by checking the foliage. Once the leaves and stems of the plant begin to yellow and die back, it is a good indication that the tubers are ready to be harvested.
It is also important to note that new potatoes, which are potatoes that are harvested before they reach maturity, can be harvested earlier than mature potatoes. New potatoes are usually smaller and have thinner skins, and can be harvested before the plant dies back.
The difference between First and Second Earlies
First early and second early potatoes are both types of potatoes that are grown for early harvest, but there are some key differences between them.
- First early potatoes, as the name suggests, are the first potatoes to be planted and harvested in a season. They are typically ready to harvest within 60-90 days after planting, and are often planted as soon as the ground can be worked in the spring. They are small to medium-sized and are usually planted at a higher density than maincrop potatoes. They are typically used for boiling or steaming, but can also be used for salads and new potatoes.
- Second early potatoes are planted a bit later than first early potatoes, usually a few weeks after the first early potatoes. They typically take around 90-110 days to mature, and are usually a bit larger than first early potatoes. They are often planted at a lower density than first early potatoes and are typically used for boiling and steaming, but can also be used for salads and new potatoes.
In summary, first early potatoes are planted and harvested first, while second early potatoes are planted and harvested a bit later. The size, density and usage of the potatoes are also different.
Find everything you need for the best homegrown seed potatoes at Horticentre
At Horticentre we have years of experience when it comes to seed potatoes, bulbs and outdoor plants. Our experts are happy to help you with any question you might have! Come and pay us a visit or shop online in our webshop, got any questions while being on our webpage? Give us a call so we can assist you!