Seed Potatoes ?

[Cheryln]

Hi,

So last year I grew organic (red) potatoes for the first time. My dad suggested keeping a few for seed potatoes to plant this year. They have been kept in a dark, cool-ish place all winter. I just took a peek at them and they all have super long white sprouts growing from them. I looked this up in the internet and there seems to be some conflicting information on what to do.

Do I plant them as is? or do I cut them back? Are they no good anymore?

Also, I am in Colorado with last frost date late in a short growing season, right around Memorial day. I do have a cold frame, and grow in a smart pot. When do I start my potatoes to ensure a good crop? It was thought I started them too late last year, and wanted to get an earlier start if possible.

Any advice on potato growing would be appreciated.

thanks!

[rainbowgardener]

They say to plant potatoes when the forsythia blooms. For me that turns out to be about a month prior to my average last frost date.

[Ohio Tiller]

I plant potatoes as soon as I can get in the ground. Normally I have them in by now but this winter will not let go. I love planting the ones that have already started sprouting its like planting jump started seeds. I make sure the sprouts are covered. Just remember when you cut them up to let them dry for a day so they skin over.