When it comes to growing potatoes, the difference between seed potatoes and store-bought potatoes is quite significant. It all starts with the fact that most potatoes in grocery stores have been treated with a sprout inhibitor. This chemical prevents the potatoes’ eyes from developing while in storage and on the shelf. On the other hand, seed potatoes are never treated with sprout inhibitors.
The use of sprout inhibitors in store-bought potatoes is mainly for commercial purposes. It helps extend the shelf life of the potatoes and prevents them from sprouting prematurely. However, for those looking to grow their own potatoes, this can pose a problem. The sprout inhibitors can inhibit the growth and development of the potato plants when they are planted as seeds.
Seed potatoes, on the other hand, are specifically grown and selected for their sprouting ability. These potatoes are meant to be used as planting material and are not treated with any chemicals. They are typically smaller in size compared to store-bought potatoes because they are harvested early to preserve their sprouting ability.
When it comes to choosing between seed potatoes and store-bought potatoes for planting, it is always recommended to opt for seed potatoes. This is because they have a higher chance of successfully sprouting and growing into healthy potato plants. Store-bought potatoes, on the other hand, may have reduced sprouting ability due to the use of sprout inhibitors.
In addition to the lack of sprout inhibitors, seed potatoes are often certified for disease-free status. This means that they have been tested and confirmed to be free from common potato diseases such as late blight, blackleg, or potato virus. This certification gives growers more confidence in the quality and health of the seed potatoes they are planting.
Furthermore, seed potatoes are typically available in a wider variety of cultivars compared to store-bought potatoes. This allows growers to choose from a diverse range of potato types, including early, mid-season, and late-season varieties. This variety is important for those who want to stagger their potato harvest or experiment with different flavors and textures.
When it comes to planting seed potatoes, it is important to handle them with care to avoid damaging the eyes or sprouts. Each potato should be planted whole or cut into pieces, ensuring that each piece has at least one or two healthy eyes. These eyes will develop into new potato plants.
The main difference between seed potatoes and store-bought potatoes lies in the treatment they undergo. Store-bought potatoes are often treated with sprout inhibitors to prolong their shelf life, while seed potatoes are never treated with these chemicals. This can significantly affect the sprouting and growth of the potatoes when used for planting. Seed potatoes are generally preferred for their higher sprouting ability, disease-free status, wider variety of cultivars, and overall suitability for successful potato cultivation.
