Hey folks! So, I recently started my first gardening adventure and decided to plant potatoes in grow bags. I planted my first batch about 3-4 weeks ago and just put another batch in last week. I'm wondering, how long does it usually take for the potato eyes to start poking above the soil?
Just to give you some context, I cut the eyes and let them dry for about 24 hours before putting them into the grow bags. I'm using 5-gallon bags but only filled them with about 3 inches of soil to cover the eyes, planning to add more soil as they emerge. However, my first batch hasn't sprouted at all yet. I've been giving them regular water and they're outside getting sunlight and some cool nights (the average is around 45 degrees right now).
Am I being too impatient, or might I be doing something wrong? I'm eager to learn and just want to make sure I'm on the right track! Thanks in advance for any advice!
3 Answers
Also, make sure you’re using true potato seeds instead of regular store potatoes if you're looking for better sprouting potential. Generally, it can take anywhere from a couple weeks to a month for the eyes to sprout, depending on conditions like temperature and moisture. Just stay patient; being a newbie is totally normal!
It really depends on a few factors! If your potatoes came from the grocery store, they might have been treated to prevent sprouting, which could slow things down or even cause them to rot. Also, keep in mind that different potato varieties have varying dormancy periods. For example, my 'Wild Blues' took over a month to start sprouting while my 'Bloody Bananas' were already a foot tall in the same time! It sounds like you're on the right track using grow bags and starting shallow, so don’t worry too much. If you’re curious, you can gently dig around to check on them without causing too much disturbance. Just cover them back up when you're done!
I think you're just a bit impatient! Potatoes can take their sweet time, especially if the weather is still cool. Just keep watering them and give them some time to adjust. They'll surprise you once they're ready to sprout!
Thanks for the tip! I had no idea about the treatment on store potatoes. Now I’m wondering if that’s what happened to mine!