How do I know when potatoes are ready to harvest?

Potatoes should be harvested at the proper time to achieve a difference between average and spectacular results. Harvesting at the right time ensures the best flavor and optimal storage. I went through many years of trials to learn this in my garden! If you harvest too early, you get small tubers, and if you harvest too late, you could end up with frost-bitten potatoes.

Observe the plant for its natural indicators. Complete foliage die-back where all vines are crispy brown, is the moment of maturity! But don't rush. Wait an additional 1-2 weeks after this time to allow for the skin to thicken. I always perform the rub test (thumb rub) on the sample tubers; if the skins are tough, then they are ready.

Frost warnings necessitate quick action. If your forecast predicts temperatures to dip to 32°F (0°C), immediately harvest, regardless of any color change in the fruit that you may be watching for. For the move, if there are light frosts, consider 6 inches of straw mulch to protect the harvest. I once lost an entire crop because I ignored frost alerts. I now look at the weather every day during harvest.

Use a combination of indicators to give you confidence. The number of days since planting, combined with a skin test, will provide good confirmation. Foliage condition plus frost forecasts is your insurance. I use two or more indicators before harvest. This practice protects against errors from a single indicator that can be deceive.

Read the full article: When to Harvest Potatoes: 6 Key Signs