What Kind of Soil Do Potatoes Like?

Potatoes grow well in rich soil that provides good drainage.

Potatoes can be grown in a variety of soil types. To ensure best flavor, full maturity, uniform shape and high yield, potatoes need soil with appropriate nutrients, minerals and texture.

Preferred Ingredients

Potatoes grow best in soil rich in potassium, phosphorous and nitrogen. They are most sensitive to nitrogen, which, in excess, can cause hollow centers in the mature vegetables. Soil sample testing centers can determine the soil's nitrogen levels, as well as other characteristics like pH levels, which should ideally fall between 5.0 and 6.0.

Soil Texture

For best results, potato-growing soil should be a well-fertilized loam with enough sand in it to promote good drainage. Soils heavy with clay need to be treated with additives to increase drainage and water retention in the potato's roots.

Precautions

If cool weather causes the top soil to form a crust that prevents the emergence of potato shoots, it must be broken to permit growth. Potatoes overfertilized with manure often suffer from scab disease, which creates rough, cork-like patches on the skin.

References

• North Carolina State University: What Kind of Soil Do Potatoes Like?
• Ohio State University: What Kind of Soil Do Potatoes Like?