Guide To Growing Potato

After purchasing your certified seed potatoes, spread out in a dry area to allow sprouts to develop approx 1-2cm in length. When planting time commences form a row approx 15cm in depth and apply Morton Smith-DawePotato Fertiliser-High Grade (specially formulated for potatoes) and mix into soil to form a row 10cm deep. This protects potato sprouts from fertiliser burning. 

Place seed potato 25cm apart in the row with sprouts pointing upwards, cover seed carefully with soil as not to damage formed sprouts.

As the potato grows commence moulding soil around potato plants when 5-10cm in height, this protects the potatoes from greening and insect damage. A side dressing of Morton Smith-Dawe Potato Fertiliser-High Grade can now be applied. Water regularly ensuring the soil is kept moist and free from weeds.

Soil pH ideally should be maintained in the range of 5.4 – 5.8. While potatoes will thrive at soil pH levels of 6.0, a lower pH is normally recommended to suppress development of potato scab.

When harvested, store potatoes in a cool dark place to retain their freshness.

Green crops are wonderful way to add natural organic matter to your soil in late Summer/Autumn as a new winter crop. Blue Lupins add nitrogen to the soil and mustard helps prevent wire worm. Green Cops are also great weed suppressant.  Morton Smith-Dawe has formulated a special mix of Blue Lupin, Mustard and Grain to provide a balanced green crop, as it covers all your garden needs.

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