Introduction
If you ’re a nurseryman look toboost your potato yieldsand ensurefaster growth , thenchittingis a proficiency you need to know about . But what incisively is chitting , and why is it crucial ?
Chitting is the process of pre - sprouting ejaculate Solanum tuberosum before plant . By set aside potatoes to developshort , sturdy shoot , they establish faster in the ground , leading toquicker development , healthier plant life , and higher yields .
In thiscomprehensive guide , we ’ll cover : ✅ What chitting is and why it matters ✅ The best meter to start chitting ✅ A footstep - by - step guide on how to chit potatoes ✅ Common mistake to avoid ✅ Expert tips for a successful potato crop
Whether you ’re anallotment gardener , container grower , or backyard enthusiast , read how to chit potatoes by rights will help oneself youget the most out of your harvest .
What is Chitting?
Chitting is thepre - sprouting processwhereseed potatoes are expose to light and warmthbefore planting . This encourage the development ofstrong , green or purple shoots , which help potatoes grow quicker once they are in the grime .
By chitting your seed potatoes , youreduce the time it takes for them to break quiescency , giving your harvest anearly advantagein the growing time of year .
Why is Chitting Important? (Key Benefits)
1. Faster Growth and Establishment
Chitted potatoesgerminate and source quicker , meaning they grow faster once planted .
2. Higher Yields and Bigger Crops
By giving your seed potatoes a head get-go , you encouragestronger plants that produce more tuber .
3. Reduced Risk of Rotting in Cold Soil
Since chitted potatoes sprout quickly in the grunge , they areless likely to rotbefore growing .
4. Early Harvests
If you desire to enjoyhomegrown tater sooner , chitting helpsfirst and second early varietiesmature faster .
5. Stronger Plants with Better Disease Resistance
A well - established potato plant is more resilient againstpests and diseases , such asslugs , wireworms , and blight .
When Should You Start Chitting Potatoes?
The best time to start chitting depends on thevariety of potatoesyou are growing . Potato TypeWhen to bulge ChittingPlanting TimeFirst EarliesLate January – Early FebruaryMarch – AprilSecond EarliesMid – Late FebruaryApril – MayMaincrop PotatoesLate February – Early MarchApril – May
? Tip : If you live in acolder neighborhood , delay planting bya mates of weeksto avoid Robert Frost damage .
How to Chit Potatoes (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Choose Certified Seed Potatoes
2. Identify the “Rose End” of the Potato
3. Arrange in an Egg Carton or Seed Tray
4. Choose the Right Chitting Location
For successful chitting , potatoes need :
5. Monitor Growth Progress
6. Remove Weak Sprouts
7. Plant Chitted Potatoes at the Right Time
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Chitting Potatoes
1. Chitting in the Dark
If chitted in darkness , potatoes producelong , imperfect , white shootsthat are thin and recrudesce well .
2. Keeping Potatoes Too Warm
affectionate temperature causesprouts to grow too quickly , take a shit them weak and prone to break .
3. Chitting Too Early
pop too presently issue inovergrown sproutsbefore planting time .
4. Letting Sprouts Grow Too Long
sprout over2 cm ( 1 inch)areeasily damagedwhen planting .
5. Storing in a Damp Area
Excess moistureincreases the risk of bunk and mold , destroy your seed potatoes .
Conclusion
Chittingis asimple but highly effectivetechnique to ensurefaster growing , strong plants , and a better harvest . Bystarting at the right time , providingideal term , and avoidingcommon mistakes , you’re able to growhealthy , fat tater plants .
Whether you ’re growingfirst earlies , 2nd earlies , or maincrop potatoes , chitting assist maximise your output and ensuresa successful growing season .
Top 10 Questions and Answers About Chitting
1. What is chitting potatoes?
Chitting is the process ofpre - sprouting seed potatoesbefore establish to speed up growth .
2. Do all potatoes need to be chitted?
Chitting is most beneficial forfirst and second earlies , butmaincrop potatoes can also benefit .
3. How long should I chit my potatoes?
Typically4 - 6 weeksbefore planting , look on variety show .
4. Can I plant potatoes without chitting?
Yes , but they will takelonger to germinate , hold up outgrowth and harvest fourth dimension .
5. Can I chit potatoes in a dark cupboard?
No ! Darkness causesweak , white shootsthat wo n’t execute well .
6. What if my potatoes sprout too much before planting?
If sprouts exceed2 cm ( 1 inch ) , gently remove the longest ones , leaving3 - 4 strong shoots .
7. Can I chit potatoes in a greenhouse?
Yes , but ensureit ’s frost - freeand does n’t get too strong on gay day .
8. Should I water my chitted potatoes?
No ! Moistureincreases the risk of putrefaction . Keep them dry .
9. Can I chit cut seed potatoes?
No , alwayschit whole potatoes . If cutting , do sojust before planting .
10. Can I plant supermarket potatoes?
It ’s not advocate — store - bribe potatoes may carry diseasesand are often treated withsprout inhibitors .
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