Ah, the humble potato! A versatile and delicious vegetable that thrives in many climates. But with so many seed potato varieties available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here’s a breakdown of the main types of seed potatoes, helping you choose the perfect spuds for your culinary desires:
The Timing is Everything:
Seed potato varieties are categorised based on their harvesting time. This allows you to enjoy fresh potatoes throughout the growing season:
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First Earlies: These eager beavers are ready to harvest in just 60-70 days after planting! Perfect for enjoying young, new potatoes in late spring or early summer. Popular varieties include ‘Rocket’, ‘Swift’, and ‘Maris Peer’.
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Second Earlies: Following closely behind, second earlies are ready for harvest in 70-80 days. They offer a good balance between size and flavour, making them versatile for salads, roasting, or mashing. Popular varieties include ‘Charlotte’, ‘Valor’, and ‘Golden Wonder’.
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Maincrop: These heavyweights take their time, maturing in 90-120 days. They develop a thicker skin and a starchy texture, ideal for baking, roasting, and making chips (fries). Popular varieties include ‘Maris Piper’, ‘King Edward’, and ‘Desiree’.
Top Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Plant a mix of early, second early, and maincrop varieties to extend your potato harvest and enjoy fresh spuds throughout the season.
From first earlies to hearty maincrops, the world of seed potatoes offers something for everyone. With this knowledge in hand, you’re well on your way to selecting the perfect spuds for your garden and culinary creations. Happy spudding!
