Potato crops thrive in Texas.
While the Panhandle region and the Rio Grande Valley are the main areas for commercial production of potatoes, East Texas also supports small-scale potato growing. East Texas falls between USDA zones 8 and 9 in the South-Midwest portion of the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Does this Spark an idea?
Spring Planting
For spring planting, Irish potatoes and similar varieties should be planted within the first two weeks of February. The spring planting date comes before the average last freeze of the winter, which is typically mid-March. Sweet potatoes, on the other hand, should be planted from early April until mid-May.
Fall Planting
In East Texas, most vegetables can also be planted in fall. Irish potatoes should be planted sometime between mid-August through mid-September for the best results. The average first freeze does not come until mid-November. Sweet potatoes are only planted in the spring, so take that into account in your garden planning.
Texas Potatoes
Texas is a major hub for commercial potato production. According to the USDA Regional IPM Centers Information System, Texas ranks number 13 in the nation in potato production. In 2008 alone, potato farmers earned a total of $84 million.
Tags: East Texas, should planted, Irish potatoes, potato production, spring planting, Sweet potatoes
