Americans eat more potatoes than any other vegetable. Potatoes are annuals and have a frost free environment for 90-120 days. They should be planted just before the last frost or when the average ground temperature is 45 degrees or better. Potatoes need loose, fertile soil that is slightly acid. Soil pH should be about 4.7 to 5.5.
Most gardeners grow potatoes from seed potatoes although actual seeds are available.
Plant the cut pieces about 4 inches deep and 12 inches apart. When plants are 5-6 inches high, add mulch and soil around the growing stem. Potatoes need consistent watering. If the soil dries out when the tubers begin to grow the grow will stop. Growth will begin again as water is added.