Potato help...

[Dyljoshmum]

Hi, I have recieved my potato order off Marshalls today. It has potato fertiliser, chitting trays, and a pack each of Charlotte, Mozart and Accent tubers. It was supposed to have three growbags as well but they forgot to send me those so are sending them separately. One thing it doesn't have, however, is any kind of instructions at all so I do not have a clue how I am supposed to plant what and when! I have no idea which of the potatos I plant first, or do they all need planting together? Also how do I chit them??
Sorry, I am a complete novice, but expected there to be at least a clue of what to do, much the same as when seed packets come with instructions on them.

Thanks
Natalie

[Jeanied]

Have a look at this link. It may help.

[rustylady]

This one may be better http://www.growfruitandveg.co.uk/gra...2-a_26499.html And to check on the characteristics of your chosen potatoes try this site The British Potato Variety Database

[Potstubsdustbins]

Natalie,

Thats most strange I have dealt with Marshalls for years and they always send out a A5 size leaflet with basic instructions.

However to the question in hand. The first thing to do is to use the special egg trays to chit your tubers. Arrange the tubers in the trays and place them somewhere frost free and with plenty of light (I use a bedroom window sill). Don't forget to label which is which or you will have problems later. Check them every couple of days until you notice little spruts coming from the tuber, turn the tuber until these are uppermost. You can start this process straight away.

The usual planting time outside would be March/April where you live. But if you have somewhere like a green house that is frost free you can plant earlier. My Swift will be in the GH by the middle of Feb.

Charlottes are a salad spud that should be ready late June.

Accent are a first early and would normally be in the ground for 10/12 weeks so a furtile at 10 weeks might produce some results.

Mozart are a new red tuber second early and should need about 16/18 weeks in the ground.

The potato fertiliser should have the dosage instructions on the container and would normally be mixed into your planting medium before planting the tubers, I have also used it as a top dressing.

If you need more help just let us know.

Colin

[Potstubsdustbins]

Hi me again,

Would you believe but a very nice man has just knocked my door with my delivery from Marshalls.

Included is a potato growing guide detailing chitting, preparation, planting, care and harvest.

Colin

[Two_Sheds]

Chitting tray? They're called egg boxes in our house

I've just filled them with the spuds I saved in the summer; eyes upwards; on a cool & light windowsill

[Potstubsdustbins]

2Sheds thats what I use however Marshalls supply something like a egg box and call it a chitting tray hence the nomenclature

Colin