Growing Potatoes During Fall in Zones 9 and 10

Don’t forget your seed potatoes! Growing potatoes from seed potatoes in Zones 9 and 10 during the fall can be rewarding, as these regions provide a favorable climate for this cool-season crop. Some gardeners miss out on planting seed potatoes in the fall, mistakenly thinking they must wait till spring. This practice leads to smaller potato harvests as gardeners miss out on almost five months of growing time for their seed potatoes.

Here’s a guide to help you successfully cultivate fall potatoes in these zones:

Variety Selection of your Seed Potato

Choose seed potato varieties that are well-suited for warmer climates. Some recommended varieties for Zones 9 and 10 include Yukon Gem, Purple Viking, Red Pontiac, and Russian Banana seed potatoes.

Timing

Planting should ideally start in late September through October in Zone 9 and 10. This allows a longer growing season than if gardeners wait till spring to plant. We recommend using row cover in areas with temperatures below 40 degrees.

Site Selection

Select a location with well-drained soil that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Potatoes prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH levels (around 5.8 to 7.0). Gardeners can grow potatoes in almost anything that will hold soil. Grow bags, raised beds, pots, etc. We have even seen potatoes grown in trashcans with drainage holes in them!

Soil Preparation

Work the soil to a depth of about 8–10 inches, incorporating organic matter like compost or well-aged manure. This improves drainage and provides essential nutrients. Adding a granular organic fertilizer like Darn Good Fertilizer will increase yields.

Planting

Cut seed potatoes into chunks with at least one or two eyes each. Allow them to dry for a day or two to prevent rotting. Plant them at least 5–6″ inches deep and space them about 12 inches apart in rows. Don’t make the mistake of planting your seed potatoes too shallowly. They need to be planted deeply and continued to be covered with soil (hilling) for the largest harvest.

Watering

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. For Zones 9 and 10, seasonal rains may not be enough for the garden. Supplement with irrigation when soil is dry.

Mulching

Apply a layer of organic mulch, like straw, to help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and prevent weeds.

Hilling

As the potato plants grow, gradually mound soil around the base of the plants to protect the developing tubers from exposure to sunlight. This prevents greening.

Pest and Disease Management

Watch for common pests like potato beetles and practice regular inspection for signs of diseases. Utilize natural predators and consider using organic controls.

Harvesting

Potatoes are typically ready for harvest about 70–90 days after planting. Wait until the foliage starts to yellow and die back or after the first blooms appear in the spring. Gently dig around the plants to unearth the potatoes. It’s like a treasure hunt!

Curing and Storage

Allow freshly dug potatoes to cure in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place for about two weeks. After curing, store them in a cool, dark location with good ventilation.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful potato harvest in Zones 9 and 10. Happy gardening!