How to Grow Potatoes Guide 🥔

Growing Non-GMO Organic French Fingerling Seed Potatoes

These potatoes thrive in loose, well-draining sandy soil rich in organic matter. Before planting, prepare the garden bed by tilling the soil to a depth of at least 10 inches and mixing in compost or aged manure to boost fertility. To plant, cut seed potatoes into pieces, each with at least one or two “eyes” (sprouting points), and let the pieces cure in a cool, dry spot for 1-2 days. Chitting is a helpful process to encourage strong sprouts before planting. Place seed potatoes in a cool, bright area (around 50°F) a few weeks before planting, allowing green sprouts to form. This jumpstarts growth and reduces time to maturity. Sow the pieces directly into the soil with their eye facing upwards, 3-4 inches deep, spacing them 12-15 inches apart in 30-36 inches apart rows.

As the plants grow, they will require a little extra attention to ensure maximum yields. One key maintenance step is hilling the soil around the base of the plants once they reach about 6 inches in height. This involves mounding soil over the lower stems to cover developing tubers and protect them from sunlight, which can cause greening and bitterness. Mulching with straw or shredded leaves around the plants helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. While pruning or pinching is not typically necessary for potatoes, removing any flowers that form can direct more energy toward tuber development, increasing yields.

Fertilization is another crucial step for healthy plants. Begin with a balanced fertilizer high in phosphorus and potassium at planting time, as these nutrients support tuber formation. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can promote leafy growth at the expense of the tubers. A second application of a low-nitrogen fertilizer during mid-season growth can further enhance yields. Consistent watering is vital, especially during tuber formation. Provide 1-2 inches of water per week, depending on local rainfall, being careful to avoid overwatering, which can cause rot or promote fungal diseases. Be vigilant for pests like Colorado potato beetles and aphids, handpicking them if necessary or using organic insecticides. Rotate your potato crops annually to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases like blight.

French Fingerling Seed Potatoes in the Organic Vegetable Garden

They can be grown in traditional garden beds or containers, making them accessible for gardeners with limited space. While primarily grown as a food crop, the French Fingerling plant can enhance a vegetable garden aesthetically with its lush, bushy greenery and delicate flowers. French Fingerlings also benefit from companion planting with crops like beans, corn, and marigolds, which can deter pests and improve soil health. Avoid planting them near tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants, as they share common pests and diseases.

Harvesting French Fingerling Organic Seed Potatoes

Harvesting the tubers should be done when the foliage begins to yellow and die back, usually around 85-115 days after planting. However, they can be harvested early for baby potatoes if desired. Loosen the soil surrounding the plants to make the tubers easier to remove. Carefully dig up the tubers to avoid damage, and cure them in a cool, dark, well-ventilated space for 1-2 weeks before storage. Store potatoes in a cool, dark, and dry location, avoiding exposure to light, which can cause greening and bitterness.

About Organic French Fingerling Seed Potatoes

French Fingerling potatoes are heirloom potatoes from France and are believed to have been brought to North America in the mid-20th century. They were bred for their resilience in cooler climates and poor soils, traits that make them a robust choice for diverse growing conditions.

They are nutrient-dense, providing vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, which support immune health and digestion.

White fingerling potatoes are smaller, they produce a vast amount, as many as 40 per hill! They are excellent when boiled, roasted, or added to soups or stews.

These delightful potatoes put an intriguing spin on what it means to be a ‘red potato.” Not only is their skin red, but their flesh is also marbled red!

For those growing in warmer zones (above 6), consider planting potatoes early in the season to allow them to have the cooler soil temperatures (60-70 F) that they like best.

The creamy, nutty flavor of French Fingerlings shines in simple, elegant dishes. Roast them whole with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary for a crispy exterior and buttery interior.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Fingerling potatoes are so easy to cook with. They have very thin, delicious skin that doesn’t require peeling. This means they are great for potato salads and soups because you can toss them in to cook as is!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

French Fingerling Organic Seed Potatoes Per Package:

• 2 lbs Seed Potatoes
• 5 lbs Seed Potatoes
• 10 lbs Seed Potatoes

Non-GMO Organic French Fingerling Seed Potatoes are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.