Sowing spuds from last year?

[stv]

Would anyone let me know whether it is advisable to sow the potatoes left over from last years early crops harvested last year, that are now chitting nicely?
They are Arran Pilot and Wilja varieties.
I have heard that you should only use purchased guaranteed seed varieties.

Thanks, Steve

[Alison]

As I understand it, theoretically you're better off using guaranteed varieties as they'll be disease free etc but seeing as you've got some spare it would seem a shame to waste them so I'd go with it and grow them.

[supersprout]

I'd do the same, just in a different part of the plot

[stv]

Thanks for the positive reinforcement, assuming no one else has a strong argument against i shall sow them in the next few weeks. I think i will also do the same with my maincrop King Edwards and Desiree.

Stv

[vicki lorraine]

Minty don says that you can keep your own seeds for 3 years but after this time it would be advisable to then purchase new seed to ensure healthy stock.

[carlseawolf]

iv'e got potatoes chitting at the moment straight from a shop bought potato sack and plan to plant them in the next week or so .
the next plot to me has bought seed potato from a merchant so would be interesting to see the comparision as we both grow the same way but his will be going in next month as he does rows in the origanal soil and i v'e raised mine up into deep beds . both use seaweed and bonfire ash on top of the seed potatos but not touching.

[stv]

Is the bonfire ash to deter wireworm?

[carlseawolf]

I Think Its To Keep The Slugs From Eating The Potatoes Under Ground !

[nick the grief]

Why not sow the Aran's in tubs? then there won't be a problem. The trouble comes if they were carrying any pests and disease. and for the cost of seed spuds is it really worth it? I got enough for my needs for about £5 from our local shop about half the cost of the seed catalogues.

[stv]

I take your point NtG, but it would feel great if we could become self sustaining for a couple of years at least. I may purchase some seed spuds just in case though...