Grow Potatoes in Straw?

[bremer516]

There was an article in BHM a few years ago explaining this method for growing potatoes above ground in straw. Has anyone tried this? Does it work? Other potato suggestions? I read the "growing potatoes in tires" thread, and it seemed to have mixed results.

I am new at gardening and hoping someone out there with more experience can help. Thanks!

[AlchemyAcres]

It works quite well, actually.
The main thing to remember is...roots form below the seed piece, tubers form above the seed piece.
It's as easy as preparing the soil and setting the seed pieces directly on top of the soil..(.I try to limit each seed piece to 1 eye, 2 tops...that'll help ensure larger potatoes) and cover with straw....as the plants grow continue covering with straw until the plants are ready to bloom.

Actually, most any good mulch will do...i typically use hay...chopped fine mixed with a bit of soil. The fine chopping holds moist better, the mulch packs a bit tighter, keeping out sunlight, which you certainly don't what coming into contact with your potatoes.

If you have access to pine needles...they're perfect for mulching potatoes...they're a bit acidic which is good insurance against scab.


~Martin :)

[bremer516]

Thanks for the information! We have just moved to "the country" and are giving gardening a try - unfortunately we only know enough to be dangerous ;)

This is probably a dumb question, but I want to make sure I understand correctly - I am supposed to cover the WHOLE plant, leaves and all with the straw / manure mix? And keep adding the straw / manure as the plants grow to cover the whole thing? Right now there is the section of seed potato with one little green shoot poking out.

Thanks for your help!

[AlchemyAcres]

I cover the entire seed potato with 5-6 inches of mulch...as the mulch settles and the plant grows 4-5 inches I add more mulch leaving the top leaves peaking through.

There's not much point in adding more than 12-14 inches of mulch once it has settled down.

You mentioned manure....old well rotted or composted low nitrogen manure is fine...fresh manure encourages scab.


~Martin

[Buck]

Since my soil is so darn sandy I have to grow my spuds in
a deep bed of straw to have any. I do quite well with this
method.

[bremer516]

Thank you gentlemen, I appreciate the information. Hopefully we will have fresh potatoes available for harvest.