Growing Potato

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23 Apr 17 Vicky (Australia - temperate climate)
I live in Hobart, I am hoping to plant potatoes, we don't really get frosts. will they grow? do the potatoes need to sprout before planting? Thanks
24 Apr 17 Carol (Australia - cool/mountain climate)
Hi Vicky, As long as you don't get frosts you can give them a go, although I have more success with early spring plantings - I'm in Central Vic and get some pretty savage frosts at times. I've copied some of the info from this site about potatoes but added a note or two of my own... . [My note - Much cheaper to buy organic spuds from a farmer's market or the like - either way, make sure they have several 'eyes' per potato] Before planting expose seed potatoes to light to start shoots growing [my note - this is known as 'chitting']. [My note - I don't always chit my spuds but you will know by doing this which ones will actually sprout and grow] . [My note - cut them after they have chitted and let them dry for at least 3 days up to 5 if the weather is rainy/humid] Hope this is helpful and good luck! (Some of this reply removed as it is already on the Potato page of Gardenate- Ed:)
23 Apr 17 Giovanni (Australia - temperate climate)
Potatoes should grow well in Hobart. Plant the tubers in spring when the soil has started to warm up a bit. Sprouting to get the potato started gets it off to a start. it is probably not necessary, as it wouldn't happen naturally, but does give the tuber a good start.
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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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