How Do Potatoes Grow Roots?

If deprived of moisture, potatoes set fewer tubers, resulting in fewer potatoes.

A potato plant's roots grow from the base of its emerging sprout stem. Other roots, called stolons, develop along the section of stem below ground. It is at the tips of these stolons that new potato tubers will develop.

Sprout Development

Each eye on a section of a seed potato is the site of a potential new plant. It is from this eye the plant will develop, sending the root part of its stem into the soil in search of water and nutrients while the top portion of the plant will develop foliage and blossoms.

Tuber Development

Tubers, or tiny potato buds, emerge from the tips of the stolons at sites called nodes. This stage coincides with the opening of the first flowers on the potato plant, according to the University of Idaho Extension.

Significance

The developing new potato tubers are enlarged sections of the plant's underground stems. From this point on, the tubers expand and become the focal point of the plant as they take in water, carbohydrates and nutrients. When the top of the plant turns yellow and wilts, the potatoes are ready to harvest.

References

• University of Idaho Extension: Potato Growth and Development
• Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives: Botany of the Potato Plant
• Backyard Nature: Modified Stems