Revolutionary Techniques: How to Grow Exhibition Potatoes Like a Pro

Do you dream of growing potatoes so perfect they’d make a potato farmer weep with joy? Exhibition potatoes are the epitome of potato perfection – flawlessly shaped, blemish-free, and boasting the most striking colors. The journey to growing these showstoppers isn’t just about planting and harvesting, it’s about understanding the nuances of potato cultivation and dedicating yourself to achieving excellence. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to grow exhibition potatoes that will turn heads at any show.

Choosing the Right Variety

The foundation of your exhibition success lies in selecting the right potato variety. Exhibition potatoes are typically categorized into three types:

• Maincrop: These varieties, like ‘Kestrel’ and ‘Desiree’, have a longer growing season and produce large, starchy potatoes ideal for baking and roasting.
• Second Early: Varieties like ‘Charlotte’ and ‘Cara’ mature faster and produce smaller, waxy potatoes perfect for salads and boiling.
• First Early: These, such as ‘Rocket’ and ‘Swift’, are the fastest to mature and are known for their smaller, waxy potatoes.

When choosing a variety, consider the following:

• Appearance: Look for varieties with smooth, uniform skin, vibrant colors, and good shape.
• Growing Season: Choose a variety that aligns with your climate and growing season.
• Resistance: Select varieties resistant to common potato diseases like blight and scab.

Preparing the Ground

Exhibition potatoes crave fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Here’s how to prepare your ground:

• Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels. Amend the soil with lime or sulfur to adjust the pH if needed.
• Compost and Fertilizer: Incorporate plenty of well-rotted compost and organic matter into the soil to improve drainage and nutrient content. Add a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formulation, to provide essential nutrients.
• Chitting: This process encourages early growth and helps ensure strong, healthy plants. Place seed potatoes in a cool, bright location for several weeks before planting. The seed potatoes will sprout, producing green shoots called “chits.”

Planting Your Potatoes

Planting time depends on your climate, but typically occurs in late spring. Here’s how to plant your exhibition potatoes:

• Spacing: Plant potatoes 12 inches apart in rows spaced 2-3 feet apart. The depth of planting should be about 4 inches deep.
• Earthing Up: As the plants grow, mound soil around the base of the stems, a process known as earthing up. This helps prevent the potatoes from turning green in direct sunlight and encourages the formation of more tubers.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Nurturing Your Potato Plants

Once your potatoes are planted, it’s time to nurture them to produce those prize-winning tubers:

• Weed Control: Keep weeds at bay by hand weeding or using a mulch to suppress weed growth.
• Pest Control: Monitor your plants for pests like Colorado potato beetles and aphids. Use organic pest control methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
• Disease Prevention: Keep your plants healthy by rotating crops, practicing good hygiene, and using disease-resistant varieties.

Harvesting and Handling

The time to harvest your exhibition potatoes depends on the variety and your local climate. Here’s how to harvest and handle your prize potatoes:

• Timing: Harvest your potatoes when the foliage begins to die back and the tubers are fully mature. This typically occurs 90-120 days after planting.
• Harvesting: Carefully dig up the potatoes, avoiding damaging the tubers.
• Cleaning and Curing: Gently brush off excess soil and store the potatoes in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place for 10-14 days to cure. This process helps the potatoes heal and develop their full flavor.

Preparing for the Show

Exhibition potatoes require meticulous preparation to showcase their best qualities:

• Washing and Brushing: Gently wash the potatoes with a soft brush to remove any remaining soil.
• Polishing: Use a soft cloth to polish the potatoes to enhance their sheen.
• Presentation: Arrange the potatoes in a visually appealing manner, highlighting their size, shape, and color.

The Art of Exhibiting

Exhibiting your potatoes is a rewarding experience that allows you to share your passion and expertise with others. Here are some tips for success:

• Show Rules: Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of the show, including class categories and judging criteria.
• Competition: Engage with other exhibitors and learn from their experience.
• Feedback: Take advantage of the opportunity to receive feedback from judges and fellow exhibitors.

Beyond the Show: Enjoying Your Harvest

While growing exhibition potatoes is a challenge, it’s also a rewarding experience. The satisfaction of producing perfect potatoes is a testament to your dedication and hard work. Enjoy your harvest!

Final Thoughts: The Joy of Growing Exhibition Potatoes

Growing exhibition potatoes is more than just a hobby; it’s an art form. It’s about understanding the intricate details of potato cultivation, embracing the challenges, and celebrating the beauty of a perfectly grown potato. From the moment you choose your seed potatoes to the day you proudly display your prize-winning specimens, the journey is filled with passion, dedication, and the joy of witnessing nature‘s bounty at its finest.

Top Questions Asked

Q: What are the best potato varieties for exhibition growing?

A: Some popular exhibition varieties include ‘Kestrel’, ‘Desiree’, ‘Charlotte’, ‘Cara’, ‘Rocket’, and ‘Swift’, each with its unique characteristics and suitability for different growing conditions.

Q: How often should I earth up my potato plants?

A: Earthing up should be done every few weeks as the plants grow, ensuring that the base of the stems is covered with soil.

Q: What are some common potato diseases to watch out for?

A: Common potato diseases include blight, scab, and verticillium wilt. Choose resistant varieties, practice good hygiene, and monitor your plants regularly for signs of disease.

Q: How do I store exhibition potatoes after harvest?

A: Store exhibition potatoes in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place for 10-14 days to cure. This process helps the potatoes heal and develop their full flavor.

Q: What are some helpful resources for learning more about growing exhibition potatoes?

A: There are many resources available online and in print, including books, websites, and gardening forums. Local gardening clubs and agricultural societies can also provide valuable information and support.