When Do You Plant Potatoes in Arkansas?

Potatoes are one of the most widely consumed foods in America and are a staple in the typical diet. In Arkansas, the climate is conducive to growing the vegetables.

Time Frame

Because potatoes are a cool-season crop, they can be among the first you set in the ground each spring. In southern Arkansas, plant potatoes in late February or mid-March, the University of Arkansas recommends. In northern regions of the state, you should plant potatoes between early March and early April.

Seed Pieces

Create seed pieces from whole potatoes for your potato plants. You can do this by cutting potatoes into pieces weighing between 1 oz. and 2 oz., the university extension reports. Make sure each seed piece has at least two or three eye buds.

Spacing and Depth

Seed pieces should be set 2 to 3 inches deep, the extension recommends. When planting multiple potatoes, plant them between 10 and 12 inches apart. Space your rows 2 to 3 feet apart.

Plant Seed Potatoes?

You can plant seed potatoes as soon as the ground can be worked in the spring, making sure to choose a sunny location. The tubers need room to grow, so plant them about 3 inches deep and 12 inches apart within the rows, leaving about 3 feet of space between the rows. When planting, you should make sure the soil is moist. The number of buds or "eyes" the seed potato has can affect the potato growth. If this occurs, cover them with extra soil or straw. Potatoes need at least 1 to 2 inches of water each week. You may harvest crops once the plant leaves die back. The best temperature for potato storage is between 35 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. When choosing varieties to grow with storage in mind, consider russets and carola, as they are the best choices if you want to keep potatoes.