Are my greenhouse potatoes ready?

[CarolineW]

I planted some Swift potatoes in large containers 14-15 weeks ago, and put them in my greenhouse. They grew quickly, quicker than the outdoor potatoes. But they haven't flowered. Yet the ones outside have been flowering since last week. Should I dig a container up and have a look, or should I wait until I see flowers? And am I correct in thinking that early potatoes are ready once they flower? This is my first year of growing potatoes (and in fact most things!), so I'm a bit clueless.

Thanks for your advice. I don't want to ruin the crop for being impatient - but then, I'm feeling impatient I can't wait to try our very first home grown potatoes.

[shirlthegirl43]

Gently lift the contents out of one bucket onto newspaper or cardboard. If you are careful and the spuds are still small (which I rather doubt) you can pop it all back into the container and leave it to grow. I bet you have a bucket load of whoppers! Go on, report back quickly please - yummy new potatoes!

[realfood]

My Swift potatoes outside have not flowered, but they are ready and I am eating them.

[dandamegs]

Are the containers big enough to have a little firtle around

Would be interested to know how they come along, was tempted to try spuds inside this year

[CarolineW]

Yeeee Haaah! You were absolutely right Shirlthegirl!!! Thanks all - am now going to have my VERY FIRST POTATOES for dinner

My very first potatoes AND my very first garlic harvested on the same day. I'll eat them with the broad beans and strawberries and peas that I picked today.

I love growing my own, and I love this Forum. You all give such great advice and support that it's really encouraged me to go for it. Thanks!!!!