Frequently Asked Questions
First earlies should be planted before second earlies, ideally from mid March to late April, depending on the weather. Aim for a time when the soil has started to warm up and there’s no longer a risk of frost.
Yes, first earlies need chitting as it gets them into growth mode by encouraging strong sprouts before planting. It helps break their dormancy and kickstarts development, which can lead to quicker growth and better yield.
Chitting should start around 4–6 weeks before planting. For most gardeners, that means beginning in late January or early February, depending on when you plan to plant.
It takes as little as 12 weeks to grow first early potatoes from seed, with very little maintenance needed. That means you can enjoy delicious, fresh home-grown potatoes from June onwards.
First early seed potatoes can be planted directly in the ground, in beds, or even in large sacks full of rich, well-drained soil. They thrive in full sun, so choose a spot that receives sunlight from morning to afternoon.