When is the latest planting time for autumn potatoes?

Planting potatoes in autumn: when to sow, what temperature conditions are needed, what environmental conditions are needed. When is the suitable sowing time, and when to sow so that later growth will not be affected. This is the key prerequisite content for autumn-sown potatoes, and now let us learn together about the timing of autumn sowing.

1. Planting time

The autumn planting time is generally between late August and early September. As long as the soil temperature drops below 25°C, you can sow; tubers stop growing above 25°C. Because of regional differences, in some areas the soil temperature is already below 25°C in August, while in others it is still relatively high. It depends specifically on the temperature. The sowing time must ensure there are two months of growing time between emergence and the first frost.

2. Temperature requirements

Potatoes like to grow in a cool environment and grow at low temperatures. Generally, after the temperature exceeds 25°C, underground tubers stop growing. The most suitable temperature for tuber growth is 15°C to 18°C. Above-ground stems and leaves are suitable for growing between 15°C and 25°C. Generally, above 38°C, stem and leaf growth stops. Therefore, the best sowing time temperature is around 20°C.

3. Soil conditions

The soil does not need to be too fertile, but it absolutely must not be sticky or compacted. It must be soft, loose, and dry; sandy soil is very suitable for planting. There are no strict requirements for soil acidity and alkalinity; it can be slightly off, as long as it is not extremely acidic or alkaline. For home pot planting, you can choose a prepared soil mix, using decomposed wood shavings or rice husks mixed with soil, and you can also add river sand or humus soil for planting.

4. Choosing varieties

For autumn potato planting, choose varieties with a short growing period, preferably ones that can be harvested in 3 to 4 months, because severe winter cold and low temperatures will definitely affect potato growth. Using whole potatoes as seed potatoes grows better; cutting them as seed potatoes makes them prone to rot, disease infection, and poor sprouting. Generally, it is best to use potatoes about 30 grams in size as seed potatoes.

For autumn potato planting, the time is generally from August to September, but what mainly determines the time is the temperature conditions. Only when the conditions are met can planting grow well. Grasping the suitable sowing period and ensuring enough growing time are also very important.