Another seed potato question

[Protea]

I can't see this question covered anywhere else so apologies if it has been!

My seed potatoes that i've ordered will no doubt be ariving in the next month or so, i want to chit my earlies but not my maincrops. The seed all arrives at the same time - how do i prevent my maincrop seed from sprouting? Do i keep it in the dark and cool? or cool and light? any ideas?? I had to wait so long last year to plant because of the weather that the maincrops i chitted had HUGE sprouts on them, and i didn't get a very good crop.

thanks in advance!

I'm getting all excited now its January, thinking about this years planting and harvest - waaaaay to far ahead of myself as usual - its still winter!

[Alice]

Keep them in the dark and cool Protea, but they might still sprout. This shouldn't affect the crop. Could the poor crop last year have been for another reason.

[Benacre]

If they do sprout too early just trim off the long straggly eyes or keep them in the fridge.
Col.

[JennieAtkinson]

I have read (although not had any experience as this is my first year of growing maincrop) that they do not sprout as easily as earlies. I am hoping that is the case.

[beefy]

about 4-8 degrees and dark should keep them from sprouting Protea.As Benacre says any that do sprout just trim off the eyes before planting.

[PAULW]

Put them in the ground the same time as the first early's then you dont have to worry

[Protea]

Cheers everyone, i have a cold dark cupboard that will do nicely!

[Snadger]

I always keep them very cool but in the light,usually in egg boxes, not in the dark? A North facing window in shed? I am surprised to hear that they should be kept in the dark as surely this will give week spindly growth if they do sprout.? The light will 'green' them and give good strong sprouts and toughen the skin to stop it from rotting!
Thinking logically (well, I do sometimes!) if they are in the dark it will be the same as being in the ground and they will start to grow?
Or have I been misled and is my logic flawed?