Start indoors or direct sow?

Plant seed potatoes directly in the garden because potato plants are not normally started and transplanted as seedlings. True potato seed is mainly used by breeders and is not the standard home-garden method.

When to start Potatoes seeds

Plant seed potatoes about 2 to 4 weeks before the average last spring frost, as soon as soil is workable and not soggy. In colder areas, wait until soil has warmed to about 45 to 50 F.

How to sow the seeds

Cut large seed potatoes into pieces with one or two healthy eyes each, leaving pieces roughly egg-sized. Let cut surfaces dry and callus for a day or two before planting. Plant pieces 3 to 4 inches deep in loose, well-drained garden soil, not indoor containers.

Germination

Sprouts commonly emerge in 2 to 4 weeks, depending on soil warmth and variety. Soil near 50 to 65 F and even moisture promote steady emergence. Cold, saturated soil can rot seed pieces before they sprout.

Seedling care

Keep soil evenly moist after shoots emerge, but avoid frequent shallow watering. Hill loose soil or mulch around stems as plants grow to keep developing tubers covered. Good spacing and airflow help foliage dry after rain.

Transplanting & hardening off

Direct sowing is the standard method, so there are no seedlings to harden off or transplant. If potatoes are grown in containers, plant seed pieces directly into the final container rather than moving young plants.

Tips

Buy certified seed potatoes instead of using grocery-store potatoes, which may carry disease or be treated to resist sprouting. Do not plant in a bed that recently grew potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants if disease has been a problem.

General seed-starting guidance for US home gardens; timing depends on your local frost dates and variety. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.