Potatoes planted in April are typically ready for harvest in August to September in the fall. However, the exact harvesting time can vary depending on regional climate differences, potato varieties, planting conditions, and cultivation practices. These factors can cause the harvesting time to be either earlier or later.
How to Plant Potatoes Properly?
Step 1: Selecting the Planting Site
Potatoes grow best in loose, well-drained, fertile sandy loam soil with good permeability and deep soil layers. Potatoes should not be planted in the same location consecutively or after other Solanaceae crops (such as eggplant, tobacco, tomatoes) or tuberous crops. It is best to plant potatoes following cereal crops.
Step 2: Soil Preparation and Fertilization
Before planting potatoes, perform stubble removal and deep plowing to a depth of 20 cm. Incorporate base fertilizer during soil preparation, primarily using well-rotted compost or manure, along with phosphate and potassium fertilizers. Typically, apply 1000-1500 kg of organic fertilizer, 15-25 kg of superphosphate, and 100-150 kg of organic manure per acre.
Step 3: Sprouting Seed Potatoes
Pre-sprout seed potatoes by spreading them in diffuse light at 15-20°C until they develop short, sturdy sprouts. Before planting, treat the seed potatoes with wood ash to promote healing of the cut surfaces and reduce the risk of rot and disease. Sprouting can be done indoors by placing the tubers in baskets or spreading them on the ground in layers 10-15 cm thick. Cover the baskets or tuber piles with wet burlap or straw mats to maintain moisture.
Step 4: Planting Guidelines
For small areas, plant potatoes manually. For large-scale planting, use a wide-row planter to apply fertilizer in furrows and space the seeds evenly. The furrow depth should be 10-15 cm, with the seed tubers placed just below or slightly below the soil surface. Ensure seeds and fertilizer are separated, and cover with about 6 cm of soil.
Step 5: Proper Plant Density
Adjust planting density based on soil fertility and potato variety. Rich soils require wider spacing, while poor soils require closer spacing. Early-maturing varieties should be planted closer together, while late-maturing varieties should be spaced farther apart. Generally, plant potatoes at a depth of 3-5 cm, with a spacing of 25-30 cm between plants and 30-40 cm between rows. An ideal planting density is 4000-4500 plants per acre.
Important Considerations
In summary, April is an ideal time for planting potatoes in major potato-growing regions such as Northeast and Northwest China. Potatoes planted in April can be harvested in August to September in the fall. Following proper planting methods will ensure a high-quality, high-yield potato crop.
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Key Points in Potato Seedling Management
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