Generally when I get to the top of the container or the plants begin to flower or are about 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) above the last hilling. At this stage the underground tubers have begun forming. Further hilling can damage stems or cover too much foliage, reducing photosynthesis.

The container should be fine – hopefully its at least 5 gallons. Chitting your own is a good option. I have also seen seed potatoes available at Home Depot recently. San Diego Seed company also sells them right now.

I am trying to grow potatoes for the first time this year. I have a couple questions.

1. I’ve read that potatoes aren’t picky about their container, but would a large flower pot cause any issues since it is smaller on the bottom than the top or would it be better if the container was equal width top to bottom?

2. I see that the guides show the last month to plant seed potatoes is January, but seedsnow and others won’t start shipping to us until February/March. Is that too late for us here in Phoenix? I have created my own Yukon Gold seed potatoes just in case, but wanted to ask.

Thanks!

The ideal soil temperature of at least 45º to 55ºF (7° to 13°C). The best yields are achieved when outside temps are between 64 and 68 degrees.

Citrus roots are pretty close to the surface, I wouldn’t plant potatoes underneath them.

@Angela Judd, Hi I’m also trying to decide when the best months are to plant potatoes. I live in the Arizona desert, it gets to about 100 degrees in the summer. Please be more specific about the best temperatures to plant the potatoes

@Angela Judd,

If the plants hadn’t died back, you could leave them in longer to see if they would grow more. They may have needed more time.

I’ve recently seen that as well. Looks interesting; it may be worth a try. If you try it let me know how it goes!