Seed potatoes and normal potatoes may look similar, but there are some important differences between them. One of the main distinctions is that seed potatoes are specifically grown and selected for the purpose of planting and growing new potato plants, while normal potatoes are typically grown for consumption.
One significant difference is in how they are treated before reaching the grocery store. Most potatoes that you find in the grocery store have been treated with a sprout inhibitor. This treatment prevents the potatoes’ eyes from developing and sprouting while in storage and on the shelf. On the other hand, seed potatoes are never treated with sprout inhibitors. This is because sprouting is desired when it comes to planting seed potatoes, as the eyes are where the new potato plants will emerge from. So, the absence of sprout inhibitors in seed potatoes is crucial for their successful growth and development into new potato plants.
Another difference lies in the varieties of potatoes used as seed potatoes versus normal potatoes. When growing potatoes for consumption, there is a wide range of varieties available, each with different characteristics such as taste, texture, and cooking properties. However, for seed potatoes, specific varieties are selected based on their ability to produce healthy and productive plants. These varieties are often chosen for their disease resistance, yield potential, and overall suitability for growing in a particular region or climate.
Seed potatoes are typically harvested at a specific stage of maturity to ensure they are in optimal condition for planting. They are carefully handled and stored to maintain their quality until planting time. Normal potatoes, on the other hand, are harvested when they have reached their full maturity for consumption. They may undergo a different curing and storage process to ensure they are suitable for long-term storage and enjoyment as food.
When it comes to planting, seed potatoes are typically cut into smaller pieces, each containing one or two eyes. These pieces are then planted in the ground or in containers, and from them, new potato plants will grow. Normal potatoes, on the other hand, are not intended for planting and are typically eaten or used in cooking.
The main differences between seed potatoes and normal potatoes lie in their treatment, selection, and purpose. Seed potatoes are not treated with sprout inhibitors, are carefully selected for their ability to produce healthy plants, and are intended for planting to grow new potato plants. Normal potatoes, on the other hand, are treated with sprout inhibitors, come in a wide range of varieties for consumption, and are not typically used for planting purposes.
