This means less green growth above ground and slower tuber formation underground.Īlthough their growth will slow, potato plants can survive cold, and they may tolerate a light frost. However, when soil temperatures stay low for a long time, the potato plant will grow more slowly both above ground and below ground. Potato tubers form best in cooler soil at temperatures of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (16 to 21 degrees Celsius). You can learn how to plant sprouted potatoes in my article here. Then, wait for the cut potatoes to “heal” (form a harder layer) before planting them outdoors. To get around this, you can sprout your potatoes indoors before cutting them into pieces. However, the University of Idaho suggests that any temperature below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius) slows wound healing in potato plants. It is also important if you live in an area with a short growing season – in that case, you might want to choose early season potato varieties.Īccording to Cornell University Extension, 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) is the minimum temperature for potatoes to sprout and germinate. This is especially important for late-season potato varieties, which take a longer time to develop. Planting earlier in the season, when the soil is cooler, will leave more time for the plant to grow and for tubers to form. To be on the safe side, the University of Maine suggests waiting until the soil warms to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius) to plant potatoes. The ideal temperature for planting sprouted potatoes (or pieces if you cut them up) is 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (7 to 10 degrees Celsius).
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