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When to Plant Potatoes in SC

Planting potatoes in SC is not difficult, you just have to plant at the right time to get a quality and abundant harvest. Potatoes do well in cold climates but do not tolerate frost. Continue reading to find out when to plant potatoes in SC.

South Carolina has several USDA planting zones; the coldest zone is 7a. The remaining USDA zones in SC are 7b, 8a, 8b, and 9a. Considering these different planting zones I will teach you when to plant potatoes in SC.

When to Plant Potatoes in SC

When to Plant Potatoes in SC? The best time to plant potatoes in the coastal region of SC is between February 1 and March 31. These dates may vary a little, you should consider when the last frost is by checking the calendar with the local forecast.

In central South Carolina, the best time to plant potatoes is between mid-February and mid-March. This means that in Aiken (SC), for example, you can start planting potatoes in mid-February.

On the other hand, in the Piedmont region of SC, the dates for planting potatoes are between March 15 and April 20. Again, check to see when the last frost is in that area. The most important thing is that the soil temperature is above 50 °F (10 °C).

Potatoes do not survive frost or temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C), so it is crucial to know the right time to plant potatoes in SC. Also, if potatoes are planted too late, they are not likely to develop properly.

Below is a table of average frost dates for the year 2024 in different cities in South Carolina:

CityLast Spring FrostFirst Fall FrostGrowing Season
Charleston17-Feb20-Dec305 days
Wedgefield29-Mar5-Nov220 days
McClellanville26-Mar13-Nov231 days
Rock Hill2-Apr31-Oct211 days
Greenville3-Apr2-Nov212 days

These dates are for 2024 in South Carolina. I recommend checking the frost calendar with the local forecast. Remember that planting potatoes in SC at the right time will ensure good growth and development of the potato plant.

Planting Potatoes in SC

In addition to planting potatoes at the right time, the soil and irrigation must be adequate for the correct development of the potatoes. For example, if the potato plant receives insufficient irrigation, the potatoes may be small or deformed. Next, I will explain more about the type of soil and water needed for potato plants in South Carolina.

Soil

Soil for growing potatoes in South Carolina should be nutrient-rich and well-drained. Soil that retains moisture will be ideal for potatoes but never waterlogged soil. Waterlogged soils bring pests and diseases such as root rot.

Potatoes can grow in a wide variety of soils with a pH ranging from 5 to 6.5, so it is essential to measure soil pH. I recommend reading our article on how to measure soil pH. Correct pH and well-drained and nutrient-rich soil will ensure the proper development of potatoes in SC.

soil for potatoes in sc
When to Plant Potatoes in SC? Depending on which region of South Carolina you are in, the timing of potato planting will vary.

Watering

It is essential to add water during the flowering stage of potatoes if the soil is extremely dry. Mulching can help retain moisture, reduce weed growth, and keep soil temperatures low. This extended growing period in low soil temperature environments results in higher potato production.

What Potatoes Grow Best In South Carolina

What Potatoes Grow Best In South Carolina? According to Clemson University, there are a wide variety of potatoes that grow best in South Carolina. Below is a list of the best potatoes to grow in SC:

  • Irish Cobbler
  • Red Pontiac
  • Kennebec
  • Yukon Gold

These potato varieties grow very well throughout South Carolina. Select quality seeds to ensure a successful germination rate.

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Can You Plant Potatoes in The Fall In SC

Can You Plant Potatoes in The Fall In SC? Yes, you can plant potatoes in the fall in SC. Potatoes are usually planted in the spring, but they can also be planted in the fall in areas with a mild climate.

Also, if you want to plant potatoes in the fall in SC you can plant them in growing bags to better protect them from the cold. I recommend you read our article on how to plant potatoes.

can you plant potatoes in the fall in sc
Can You Plant Potatoes in The Fall In SC? Several potato varieties such as Yukon Gold can be planted in the fall in SC.

Final Conclusions

Growing potatoes in SC is not difficult, you just have to plant the potatoes at the right time. The most important thing is that the soil temperature should not be below 50 °F (10 °C).

I hope this article about when to plant potatoes in SC will be very useful, and you will have an excellent harvest. I recommend you to read our article about when are potatoes ready to harvest.

About Henry Morgan

Henry Morgan is an agronomist horticulture founder of The Garden Style Company and The Garden Style Website. He previously worked for Mondelēz International as an Agronomist Engineer specializing in agricultural products management in highly populated areas. In 2000, Henry started working with farmer-producers in agricultural businesses selling wholesale fresh produce and retail plants in Van Buren, Arkansas. Nowadays, Henry lives in California, where he offers expert consulting services for organic vegetable gardening. As a science writer working with his wife, Julia, Henry shares his passion for gardening and farming, trying to reach and teach as many folks as possible.

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