Potato Charlotte - 1kg - organic

Charlotte Potato – Versatile and Flavorful Firm-Fleshed Variety

The Charlotte potato is known for its fine texture and delicate flavor. The tubers are medium-sized, elongated, and very uniform in shape. Its firm, yellow flesh holds its shape perfectly after cooking, making it ideal for salads, gratins, and oven dishes.

✔ Excellent storage capacity
✔ High yield
✔ Thin skin – no peeling required

Growing time: 90-120 days (size: see data table)

Growing Advice for Charlotte Potatoes

Preparing the Seed Potatoes

• Store in a dry, cool, and dark place to prevent premature sprouting.
• Regularly check for signs of rot or disease and remove any affected potatoes.
• A few weeks before planting, allow them to sprout in a well-lit, ventilated area at 5-10°C.

Soil and Location

• Light, nutrient-rich soil: Ensure good drainage to avoid fungal infections.
• Sunny location: Potatoes need plenty of sunlight to grow well.
• Crop rotation: Avoid planting potatoes where nightshades like tomatoes or eggplants grew the previous year.

Planting

• When? Plant when the soil has warmed to around 10°C, usually from mid-April. Protect against frost by earthing up or covering with fabric.
• How?
  • Dig trenches 10-15 cm deep.
  • Place the sprouted potatoes with the shoots facing upwards.
  • Keep 30-40 cm between plants and 60 cm between rows.
  • Cover with a layer of fine soil.

Care

• Earthing up: When plants reach 20-25 cm, mound soil around the stems to promote tuber formation and prevent greening.
• Watering: Potatoes dislike drought. Water regularly and mulch to retain moisture.
• Weeding: Keep rows weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients.

Harvest and Storage

• When? Harvest when the foliage yellows and dies back, typically between August and September.
• How? Harvest on a dry day and allow potatoes to dry briefly in the open air.
• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry, and dark place, preferably in a ventilated cellar or shed.

Diseases and Pests

• Late blight: Brown spots on leaves, spreads rapidly in humid weather.
• Colorado potato beetle: Larvae and beetles can severely damage plants.
• Wireworms: Small holes in tubers indicate infestation.
• Aphids: Can transmit viruses to potato plants.
• Tip: Rotate crops and choose resistant varieties to prevent issues.

Useful Growing Tips

✔ Grow alongside onions or beans for beneficial companion planting.
✔ Avoid planting near pumpkins and cucumbers.
✔ Do not plant potatoes in the same spot two years in a row.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

Potatoes are a natural source of carbohydrates and fiber, supporting digestion and satiety. They contain potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and vitamin B6, essential for brain function. Choosing healthy cooking methods like steaming or boiling preserves their nutritional benefits.