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Can I save the small potatoes from my spring crop for planting in the fall in my garden? I live in Texas.

Last Updated: May 04, 2011

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Yes. This is commonly done because good seed potatoes are scarce in the fall. Sometimes, the potatoes saved from the spring garden fail to sprout when planted in the fall because of a natural dormancy in newly harvested potatoes. Considerable controversy exists as how to handle these potatoes in order to break the dormancy and enable them to sprout when planted. One recommended procedure for breaking the dormancy involves harvesting the potatoes and placing them in a cool storage area (50°F) until three to four weeks before fall planting. At that time, maintain them at normal environmental conditions until planting. Maintaining the seed potatoes at a high humidity during this time by covering them with moist burlap bags will help initiate sprouting. The small potatoes should be planted whole and not cut to prevent rotting.

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