Q and A: Planting corn after potatoes and Potatoes with red streaks

Planting corn after potatoes

My early potatoes are done and I need more room for my corn. I thought I had read something about not planting potatoes and corn in the same spot. Of course now I can’t find that in any of my books. Please advise.

Lisa Ehlers
Sacramento, California

I’ve never heard anything about not planting corn where potatoes were planted. In fact, I do it nearly every year, rotating my potato rows, bean rows, and corn rows. I wouldn’t worry a bit. — Jackie

Potatoes with red streaks

I cut into a new Yukon Gold potato that I just got from the garden. It had red streaks running through it. I threw the potato away, but now am concerned that the rest of my small crop may be affected (“infected”). Any idea what this is?

Sandra Agostini
Nixa, Missouri

You didn’t need to throw away your Yukon Gold potato. Some potatoes of all varieties will sometimes show some red streaks. By breeding these potatoes, they have developed many red or blue swirled colored potato varieties. The potatoes are not infected with anything. Enjoy. — Jackie