Growing Potatoes in Containers

If you are short on space try growing potatoes in containers.

What a great way to enjoy the taste of home grown vegetables without the problems that can occur in a conventional garden bed.

Potatoes thrive in plastic garbage bags! Use a 15 gallon kitchen bag or a 30 gallon lawn and leaf bag for this vegetable gardening attempt.

Cut several drainage holes in the bottom of the bag and choose a spot with plenty of sun.

Balcony gardening provides the perfect opportunity for growing potatoes in containers.

Roll down sides of the bag and fill about 1/3 full with potting soil or garden soil.

Plant seed potatoes, eyes pointing up about 2" deep in the soil. Water it well.

When the plants are 6" to 8" tall, you will need to add more soil to the bag. Add enough to only leave the top few leaves exposed.

As your potato plant grows, keep unrolling the sides of the bag and adding more soil or straw. Watch out for bugs and keep the soil wet, but not soggy.

The foliage of the plant will turn yellow-brown, dying off. Stop watering and wait a few weeks for the potatoes to cure before harvesting.

Split the side of the bag open with a pocket knife and the potatoes will fall out, ready to eat or store!

Try this unique vegetable garden plan this season. It is also a fun way to introduce young children to the joys of gardening!