Container gardening is a great idea for urban dwellers and homeowners who have limited space. It is also an easy way for gardeners to increase their produce in a controlled environment. Growing potatoes in a barrel reduces the appearance of weeds and exposure to fungi and pests. Furthermore, you don't risk damaging the potatoes with a shovel during harvest time. Simply tip the container over to get your potatoes.
I tried this last spring, and the results were quite good if I do say so myself. Here’s how you can do it in just four simple steps.
What You’ll Need
- A Barrel or Large Container (at least 24 inches deep with good drainage)
- Seed Potatoes (choose certified seed potatoes to reduce disease risks)
- Potting Soil
- Compost or Fertilizer
- Watering Can
How to Grow Barrel Potatoes
- Prepare the Barrel
Select a barrel or container with plenty of depth and drill drainage holes if needed. Place it in a sunny spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Add a layer of soil mixed with compost or fertilizer, about 6-8 inches deep.
When I set up my barrel, I elevated it slightly on bricks to help with drainage, which also made it easier to monitor the water level.
- Plant the Potatoes
Cut the seed potatoes into chunks, each with at least one “eye” or sprout. Let the pieces dry for about a day to reduce the chance of rotting. Place 4-6 potato pieces evenly on top of the soil, then cover them with another 4-6 inches of soil.Keep spacing in mind. Planting too many potatoes in one barrel can overcrowd the roots. Stick to fewer pieces for healthier plants.
- Add Soil as the Plants Grow
When the potato plants sprout and grow taller, add more soil to cover the lower stems. Leave just the top leaves exposed. Repeat this process every time the plants grow about 6 inches until the soil level reaches the top of the barrel.Pro tip: Adding soil regularly helps the plants produce more potatoes along their buried stems.
- Harvest the Potatoes
After 10-12 weeks, when the plants flower and the leaves start to yellow, it’s time to harvest. Simply tip the barrel over or dig into the soil to collect the potatoes. Let the harvested potatoes cure in a cool, dry place for a day or two before storing them.When I harvested my first barrel, I realized how easy it was to dig through loose soil compared to my other garden beds. This method works well for gardeners with limited space and keeps everything neat and manageable. Give it a try this growing season!
