Potatoes are one of the most versatile foods we have on this planet.
The starchy vegetable has the charm to hook people from all age groups. In the inflation-stricken times of today, growing your own vegetables is pretty smart.
While eating potatoes is easy, growing them can be difficult, especially in the middle of the hot desert of Arizona.
The good news is that you can grow this universally loved vegetable in Arizona.
The question popping into your head might be: “How to grow potatoes in Arizona in the first place?”! Well, we have a guide for you to learn how to grow potatoes in Arizona in four effortless steps.
Just keep following this article, and you will have a fresh batch of potatoes coming from your backyard in no time.
It will save you money and make you look cool in front of that haughty neighbor next door; it’s a win-win!
So, let’s get right into the article.
The Potato Season in Arizona
While you can grow potatoes in the hot weather of Arizona, this does not mean that you can grow them at any time.
Potatoes are a winter crop and thus thrive in colder climates. So, to grow it in Arizona, you need to plant potatoes during relatively cooler days.
It translates to early spring or late fall when the nights are cooler and days are warmer.
That said, let’s now look at the resources you’ll need to grow potatoes in Arizona.
Things Needed to Grow Potatoes in Arizona
Before learning how to grow potatoes in Arizona, you would need some inventory.
To avoid trouble at the last moment, precheck your supplies and make a trip to the gardening store if needed:
- Potato sprouts or potato seeds
- Gardening container
- Gardening shovels
- Watering source
- Fertilized soil
- Gardening gloves
Now, let’s learn how to grow potatoes in Arizona.
How to Grow Potatoes in Arizona?
Once you have all your supplies in check, you are ready to learn how to grow potatoes in Arizona.
The best method to grow potatoes in hot areas is the container method.
Follow the steps below to execute it.
Step 1: Place Fresh Soil in the Container
You can buy fertilized soil from your local Gardner or any online source.
- Start by filling the container with soil. (You just need to fill till halfway to get the best potatoes.)
- Spread the soil in the container to make an even layer.
- After the evening out, gently press the soil to fit it well in the container.
Once you’ve done that, move to the next step.
Step 2: Place the Potatoes in the Container
Once your soil is set, it’s time to plant the potatoes.
NOTE: It is to be noted that the potato plant expands horizontally and vertically while growing. So, it would help if you planted the potatoes at an adequate distance.
We recommend having a space of at least 10 inches between two potato plating.
- Once you have placed all the potatoes in the container, it’s time to add another layer of soil.
- Start by spreading a two-inch layer of soil over the planted potatoes or potato seeds.
- Then gently press to settle the soil.
Now, move to the next step.
Related article: Gardening in Arizona | 10 Ultimate Tips for Beginners!
Step 3: Loosen up the Soil
Potatoes grow under the ground.
It means you need extra care to provide them with sufficient air.
To ensure that your potatoes get enough air, poke some holes in the soil or loosen it up a bit so that the air within gets circulated.
Be gentle at this stage since you do not want to damage the planted potatoes.
Step 4: Always Take Care of Watering
Potatoes are the happiest when they are moist.
- Hence you would need to immediately water the soil as soon as you are done planting the potatoes.
- Do not just sprinkle water over your newly planted potatoes. Make sure to fill the container so that the potatoes are soaked well.
Try to find that perfect balance.
That’s all!
You just learned how to grow potatoes in Arizona in four easy steps.
However, here’s a visual guide for you as well:
Care Tips for Growing Potatoes in Arizona
Now that you’ve learned how to grow potatoes in Arizona, the work does not end! After planting the potatoes in containers, they will require constant care.
Here are some tips to ensure you get the best of the potatoes:
Sunlight
Even though potatoes grow underground, the crop still requires sunlight.
Since Arizona has harsh sun, it is recommended that you place your container in an area where it receives partial sunlight throughout the day.
You can also aim for a place that only gets direct sunlight for some hours of the day. It will ensure that the soil of your potatoes remains moist.
pH Levels
The potential of hydrogen (pH) may seem something only science people need to worry about, but that is not the case. The soil’s pH level can directly impact how your potatoes turn out.
Your potatoes will thrive best in slightly acidic soil.
Regularly check the pH using a pH checker. If adjustments are needed, throw in some pH adjusters for your soil.
Nutrient Levels
Potatoes require a lot of nutrients to grow.
Hence, you would have to check the nutrient levels of your soil constantly.
We recommend that you invest in a soil nutrient check for the matter. You can sprinkle some compost or fertilizer in your container every 3–4 weeks.
Always take a look at the soil before adding the fertilizer.
Too much of anything is wrong.
That’s all!
Conclusion
The love for potatoes is universal.
No matter which part of the world you are from, chances are you love eating potatoes.
Now you can grow anything anywhere. If you belong to Arizona and wish to grow potatoes in your region, our guide on how to grow potatoes in Arizona in four effortless steps is always here to your help.
This beginner-friendly guide will help you in each phase of the growth process.
So, what are you waiting for? Go grow some potatoes!
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