How to Properly Remove Potato Tops for Better Storage
Learn the best method to remove potato tops for optimal crop storage and success.
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To remove potato tops, first wait until the leaves turn yellow and start to die back. Then, use garden shears or scissors to cut the stems about an inch above the soil. This allows the potatoes to harden their skins, making them better for storage. Alternatively, you can pull the entire plant out from the base if you plan to harvest immediately. Remember to handle the plants gently to avoid damaging the potatoes underground.
FAQs & Answers
- When should I remove potato tops? Remove potato tops when the leaves turn yellow and start to die back, which typically indicates maturity.
- What tools do I need to remove potato tops? You can use garden shears or scissors for cutting potato tops effectively.
- Can I pull out the entire potato plant? Yes, if you plan to harvest immediately, you can gently pull the entire plant out from the base.
- How does removing potato tops help storage? Removing the tops allows the potatoes to harden their skins, making them less susceptible to rot and better for storage.