Planting Seed Potatoes & Onions
Potatoes and onions are staple crops in many households and a great addition to any garden. Planting seed potatoes and onion sets is a relatively easy task, but some best practices should be followed to ensure a successful harvest. This article will discuss the best soil types for planting, watering needs, when to plant, and when to harvest.
Soil Type
The first step in planting seed potatoes and onion sets is to ensure the soil is suitable for growth. Potatoes and onions prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.0 and 7.0. Before planting, it is recommended to add compost or aged manure to the soil to improve its texture and fertility.
Watering Needs
Both potatoes and onions need consistent moisture, but they should not be overwatered. Overwatering can lead to rot and disease. The best way to water potatoes and onions is to give them a deep watering once a week. If there is no rainfall, water the plants twice a week.
When to Plant
The ideal time to plant seed potatoes in Ontario is mid to late May. The soil should be at least 7°C (45°F) before planting. It is important to wait until after the last frost before planting, typically mid-May. Onion sets should be planted in late April or early May.
Planting Potatoes
To plant seed potatoes, dig a 4-6 inches deep trench. Space each potato about 12 inches apart and cover them with soil. Once the potato plants are about 6 inches tall, mound soil around the base of the plant to protect the tubers from sunlight.
Planting Onions
Onion sets should be planted about 1 inch deep and 4-6 inches apart. It is important to plant the sets with the pointed end facing up. Once the onions are about 6 inches tall, add a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing.
Growth Time for Potatoes
Potatoes progress through several distinct growth stages:
Sprouting (Planting to Emergence) – After planting seed potatoes, sprouts develop underground. This stage lasts approximately 25–40 days, influenced by soil temperature and moisture.
Emergence – Shoots break through the soil surface, developing stems and leaves. This occurs about two to three weeks after planting.
Vegetative Growth – The plant focuses on foliage development, supporting future tuber growth.
Tuber Initiation – Small tubers begin forming underground.
Tuber Bulking – Tubers enlarge and accumulate nutrients. This phase typically spans 45–90 days after emergence.
Maturation – Foliage starts yellowing and dying back, indicating tubers have matured and are ready for harvest.
Potatoes are typically ready to harvest 90–120 days after planting. When the potato plants begin to die back, it is a sign that the tubers are ready to be harvested. To harvest, carefully dig around the base of the plant with a garden fork and remove the tubers from the soil.
Growth Time for Onions
Onions also undergo specific growth stages:
Germination – Seeds sprout, leading to the emergence of the first leaf. This process takes 7–12 days.
Seedling Stage – Seedlings develop additional leaves, establishing the plant’s framework.
Bulb Initiation – Triggered by day length, the plant begins forming bulbs. Long-day onions require 14–16 hours of daylight, while short-day varieties need 10–12 hours.
Bulb Development – Bulbs increase in size as nutrients are stored.
Maturation – Foliage starts to yellow and topple over, signaling that bulbs are ready for harvest.
Onions are ready to be harvested when the tops begin to fall over. Dig the onions out of the soil and allow them to dry in a cool, dry place for a few days before storing.
In conclusion, planting seed potatoes and onion sets is relatively easy as long as the best practices are followed. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter, and water consistently but do not overwater, plant at the right time, and harvest at the right time. With a little effort and patience, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of potatoes and onions.
