Xmas Potatoes help needed please

[madhatterlizzy]

I have a roof top garden which I started this year after early retirement and have managed to grow potatoes for the first time - wow I did really well with the 1st earlies and the 2nd are growing really well too - now thinking of planting for Xmas - but no idea on the right varieties to grow or when to start - can anyone help?

[rustylady]

You need an early variety, and they take about 12 weeks from planting to maturity. Lucky you being in Paignton - you shouldn't be bothered by frost!

[madhatterlizzy]

Thanks "rustylady" - any ideas of particular varieties? Paignton does get some frost but mainly I have to worry about when its windy and I tend to get sand in the containers - but have managed to loose weight and get a great tan this year now I'm retired and can spend all day out there - its been great - I'm hooked now

[rustylady]

Not advertising a supplier, but this link was on one of the adverts on this site Christmas Potato Seeds - 12 Tubers - Arran Pilot - Quality Seeds - Next Day Despatch

[Snadger]

Round ere the only way you can get crimbo tatties is to buy them in the supermarket!

I've tried three years running to get a crop for my christmas dinner without success because of cold and frost.............evn when covered with straw, in a cold frame with a paraffin heater in it..............didley squat was the outcome!

Good luck with yours!

[Alison]

I got two last year - used the stored PFA for Christmas dinner instead

[Potstubsdustbins]

Lizzy have you tried Suttons, Woodview Road, Paignton, they may well be able to help as they should know your area well.

Colin

[scarletrunner]

Blight ruined my last years xmas crop.

[Two_Sheds]

I got some Xmas spuds last year: they were planted in late June/early July. When the foliage all died off I moved the container into the gh for the winter (frost would kill the foliage but didn't touch the tubers)

I can't remember what variety, it would have been something fairly ordinary

[madhatterlizzy]

Many thanks Colin - I have been in touch with Suttons and they have been a great help - also thanks to everyone who replied much appreciated - I'm a new gardener so its all very confusing at the moment - happy gardening everyone, Lizzy

[Two_Sheds]

Here it is, my only ever crop of Xmas spuds: http://www.growfruitandveg.co.uk/gra...tml#post785111

[Florence Fennel]

Not sure whether it be worth it, but might give it a go this year.