[sandygreen]

I know there is big debate as to when is the best time to plant potatoes in the ground and they are saying on the gardening programme on local radio that it is too soon as there may be frost around.  However, I am growing my 1st earlies in bags so can I plant them today as I keep the bag topped up so potato leaves aren't likely to get hit by any frost?

[Ivor Backache]

Short answer is yes. I started potatoes in pots in early February and they are now in full leaf. Those outside have to covered with an old sheet because of the cold nights. I have started planting in the ground. They will not show for another 3 weeks, and even if there may be cold night just cover them with soil.

[mumofstig]

You can plant them when you like, in pots or in the soil, but any growth above the soil level will be killed by frost. So as has already been said - if you plant early you will have to cover any top growth on frosty nights, or move into a greenhouse if they are in pots.

My very early pots are still in the greenhouse, for that reason, I planted the others at the end of last week and they will get earthed up as needed.

[sandygreen]

Thanks very much for that, I have just planted one bag but will now do the rest whilst the sun is shining!

[Tenhens]

Rather than starting a new thread on planting in bags, have just watched Monty planting in bags.  He put three in the bag approximately 6 - 8 inches apart.

[BumbleJo]

Rather than starting a new thread on planting in bags, have just watched Monty planting in bags.  He put three in the bag approximately 6 - 8 inches apart.

Yes I saw that and he rubbed all but one sprout off and said don't water till growth starts which surprised me...

[Barry C]

I find there are advantages with potatoes in bags for me .....

I have a small garden with nowhere suitable to grow in the ground
I planted three bags up about 3 weeks ago in the greenhouse and they're coming on well, so should get and early crop
I can move them outside when its time to put tomatoes in the greenhouse, second set of three bags now also planted up

[Barry C]

A couple of the bags, doing well