Are you looking for an innovative and rewarding way to grow potatoes even in the limited space of yours balcony? Well, you’re in the right place!
Even without a large garden, your balcony can turn into a real one urban garden.
Growing potatoes in pots is possible, and following the advice of expert gardeners can lead to a bountiful and surprising harvest.
Choosing the Perfect Variety
Not all potatoes are suitable for growing in pots. Opt for variety early o semi-early which have a shorter growth cycle and require less space.
Among the best choices are: The Ratwith a texture dark, The Beauty of Fontenayknown for its productivity and The Charlottea certainty for abundant harvests.
The Right Container
Potatoes need enough space to develop tubers. Choose a container with at least 40-50 cm of depth and width.
Experts advise i culture bags for optimal aeration and effective drainage.
Make sure the vase has drainage holes to avoid water stagnation and use a saucer to protect the balcony.
Soil preparation
A good one preparation of the substrate it is crucial for a generous harvest. Potatoes prefer light, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
Prepare a mixture made from 2 parts universal potting soil, 1 part compost well decomposed and 1 part sand to improve drainage.
Don’t forget to add a handful of fertilizer natural rich in potassium before planting.
The Planting Technique
Planting potatoes in pots requires precise technique. Prepare yours tubers leaving them sprout in a bright place for two or three weeks.
Once sprouted, fill the pot with 10-15 cm of substrateplace the tubers with the shoots facing up and cover them with approx 10 cm of soil.
As the plants grow, gradually add more substrate to cover them piping.
Care and Maintenance
Once potatoes are planted, it is essential to care for them properly. THE’irrigation it must be regular but moderate. Maintain the substrate slightly moistpreventing it from becoming too wet.
To stimulate the growth of tubers, administer a fertilizer rich in potassium every 15 days. Also, keep an eye out for any harmfulcome aphids and the mildewand use natural treatments to control them.
Once you finish reading, you will be able to transform your balcony into one green spaceready to offer a harvest that will surprise you and anyone who comes to visit you. If you have sprouting potatoes, get started today!