Red Pontiac and Red Norland potatoes are both types of red potatoes that you can grow in your garden. While they both have their own unique characteristics, there are some key differences between the two varieties.
1. Appearance: Red Pontiac potatoes are generally larger and have a more irregular shape compared to Red Norland potatoes. They often have a slightly rougher skin with deep eyes and a reddish-pink color. On the other hand, Red Norland potatoes tend to be smaller and more uniform in shape, with a smoother skin and a lighter red color.
2. Growth and Yield: Red Pontiacs typically bulk up as they grow, resulting in larger potatoes at harvest time. This can be advantageous if you’re looking for bigger potatoes to cook with. However, it also means that the harvest may have a less uniform size, with some larger and some smaller potatoes. In contrast, Red Norland potatoes tend to mature sooner, which can be beneficial if you want an earlier harvest. However, they have a tendency to crack under high heat and may become mealy if not harvested promptly.
3. Cooking Characteristics: Red Pontiac potatoes are known for their versatility in the kitchen. They have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor, making them suitable for various cooking methods such as boiling, baking, roasting, or mashing. Their larger size also makes them great for stuffing or making potato salads. Red Norland potatoes, on the other hand, have a more delicate texture and tend to hold their shape well when cooked. This makes them ideal for boiling or steaming, as they can be easily sliced or diced without falling apart. However, their mealy tendency when overcooked can be a drawback.
4. Growing Conditions: Both Red Pontiac and Red Norland potatoes thrive in well-drained, loose soil with a pH range of 5.8 to 6.5. They require full sun and regular watering to ensure proper growth. However, Red Norland potatoes are more suitable for cooler climates and can be planted earlier in the season due to their shorter maturity time. Red Pontiacs, on the other hand, can tolerate warmer temperatures and have a longer growing season.
In my personal experience, I have grown both Red Pontiac and Red Norland potatoes in my garden. The Red Pontiacs produced a mix of larger and smaller potatoes, which was great for different culinary uses. I used them in dishes like roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, and potato salads. The Red Norland potatoes, on the other hand, were perfect for boiling and used in potato salads, as they maintained their shape and had a pleasant texture.
The choice between Red Pontiac and Red Norland potatoes depends on your preferences and specific growing conditions. If you prefer larger potatoes with a versatile cooking range, Red Pontiacs might be the better choice. However, if you are looking for early-maturing potatoes that hold their shape well, Red Norland potatoes could be a great option.
