Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil
Loosen the soil to a depth of 8 to 12 inches
Mix in compost or well-rotted organic matter
Use certified seed potatoes
Cut large seed potatoes into pieces with at least one or two eyes each
Let cut pieces dry for 1 to 2 days before planting
Plant seed pieces 3 to 4 inches deep
Space plants 12 inches apart in rows 2 to 3 feet apart
Cover the planted potatoes with soil
Water evenly to keep soil moist but not soggy
Hill soil around the stems when plants are 6 to 8 inches tall
Repeat hilling every 2 to 3 weeks as plants grow
Keep weeds removed from the potato bed
Water more during flowering and tuber formation
Avoid overwatering to prevent rot
Watch for pests and diseases regularly
Stop watering when tops begin to yellow and die back
Harvest new potatoes a few weeks after flowering
Harvest mature potatoes after the foliage has died back
Dig carefully with a fork or shovel to avoid damaging tubers
Cure harvested potatoes in a dark, cool, ventilated place
Store potatoes in a cool, dark, dry location