Growing and Caring for Potatoes (video)

In this Growing Fresh Food video, Master Gardener Jen Aron talks about caring for potatoes.

Potatoes are one of those vegetables that are so plentiful and easily found at the market, many don’t even consider growing it. But it is one of the easiest crops to grow and there are over 4,000 varieties to choose from. They like to be planted when it is still cool outside, and urban farmer Donna Smith says she always gets hers in around St. Patrick’s Day.

Depending upon variety, potatoes can be harvested 90-120 days after planting. Many kids find digging up potatoes a fun activity, almost like going on a treasure hunt! And there are as many different ways to cook them as there are varieties. If you haven’t tried it, I highly recommend the Twice Baked Irish Potatoes with Stout Onions and Kale.

Jen Aron, owner and operator of Peaceful Gardens, sustainable landscape design. OSU Extension Master Gardener, certified in Permaculture Design, have been teaching sustainable agriculture and Permaculture throughout the Portland area for the past two years, volunteer countless hours educating the Portland community about urban agriculture and sustainability.