Solanum tuberosum
Solanum tuberosum
potato
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Taxonomy
Family Solanaceae · Genus Solanum
Common Names
potato
Context
nativeRegion
Native to the Andes region of South America.
usdaZones
Grown as an annual in zones 3–10.
companionPlants
Beans, Cabbage, Horseradish, Marigold
culturalUses
Staple food crop worldwide; used for food, alcohol production, and in folk medicine.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun is required for optimal tuber development.
WateringRegular watering to keep soil evenly moist, especially during tuber formation. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
SoilLoose, well-drained, fertile soil with pH between 5.0 and 6.5.
FertilizerBenefit from balanced fertilizer, particularly rich in phosphorus and potassium. Avoid high nitrogen to prevent excessive vegetative growth.
HumidityModerate humidity preferred. Too much humidity can encourage disease.
TemperatureIdeal growth between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Sensitive to frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitHerbaceous perennial, cultivated as an annual for its tubers.
Mature SizeTypically 60–100 cm (24–39 in) tall.
Growth RateRapid growth; matures in 80–120 days depending on variety.
BloomingProduces small white, pink, or purple flowers; flowering correlates with tuber formation.
DormancyTuber enters dormancy after harvest; top growth dies back at season's end.
Propagation
MethodsTuber division (seed potatoes), True botanical seed
DifficultyEasy (via tubers); Moderate (from seed)
Best SeasonSpring, after last frost for planting tubers.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningHilling soil around stems as plants grow. Remove damaged or diseased foliage.
RepottingNot typically repotted, but grown in mounds or bags may require additional soil as plants grow.
Pests & DiseasesVulnerable to late blight, potato beetle, aphids, wireworms, and fungal rots.
ToxicityGreen parts and green tubers contain toxic solanine; only cooked, fully mature tubers are edible.
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