Hilling potatoes

[Eurosceptic]

Morning

This is my first stab at growing spuds. (Late ones)

I know the conventional wisdom is

When the plants are 8-12 inches tall they should be hilled to keep tubers covered and prevent greening. Mound the soil to a height of 3 to 6 inches and approximately 12 to 15 inches from the base of the plant.

I’ve tried to mound the soil to 3-6”, and this should equate to about 12” from base. (They were 6” deep)

I’m just concerned too much of the stalks (tubers?) are exposed. Do I need to add more soil to just below level of leaves? Going to be difficult as they’re growing quite close together.

Thank you.

 

[Odds]

 

[elisa123]

The pots look fine. Don't worry too much about earthing up as long as no pots are visible. I earth up twice over the growing season.

 

[Eurosceptic]

Hi All

See attached image of spuds. I tried to “hill” for a second time a few weeks ago. Quite a few flowers there, but know that’s not a reliable indicator of time to harvest. Also managed to break (not entirely) a few stalks while hilling.

The leaves and stalks are still pretty green, so guess a few more weeks to go. Is that right? (Think they were planted middle June so only about two months)

One of the plants has really suffered from broken stalks and general position. (On slope) Should I leave that until I harvest the rest?

Giving them plenty of water.

Many thanks

 

[Eurosceptic]

Another view showing height of spuds.

 

[JohnAnderson1]

The one with broken stalks if it’s still got some green, leave it. It might not yield much, but it’ll do better than pulling it now.