Second Early Potatoes

Second Early Potatoes FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Second Early Potatoes in the UK. You can contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to Plant Second Early Potatoes

Second early potatoes are typically planted in March to April, once the soil has started to warm up. Like first earlies, it’s beneficial to chit the seed potatoes beforehand by placing them in a cool, light environment to encourage sprouting. Plant the chitted potatoes about 10-15 cm deep and 30 cm apart, with rows spaced 60 cm apart. Ensure the site is sunny and has well-drained soil. Cover with soil and be ready to protect the emerging shoots from any late frosts.

How to Grow Second Early Potatoes

Growing second early potatoes is a straightforward process that rewards with a mid-summer harvest. Start by preparing the soil with plenty of organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. After planting, cover the seed potatoes with soil and water well. As the plants grow, earth up the soil around the stems to cover the lower leaves, which helps protect the developing tubers from light exposure and supports the plant’s structure. Consistent watering is key, especially during dry periods, to ensure the plants produce a good crop. Second early potatoes are also well-suited to container growing if garden space is limited.

How Long Does It Take to Harvest Second Early Potatoes?

Second early potatoes are usually ready to harvest about 13 to 16 weeks after planting, typically in June or July. The plants will begin to flower when the tubers are forming, but you can start checking for harvest readiness once the flowers begin to fade. To harvest, gently lift the plants with a fork, being careful not to damage the tubers. Second early potatoes are often harvested when they are medium-sized, perfect for salads or boiling. Regular harvesting can encourage further tuber development, extending your yield.

Why Grow Second Early Potatoes?

Growing second early potatoes is an excellent way to extend your potato harvesting season. These potatoes offer a more substantial yield than first earlies and can be used in a variety of culinary dishes. The flavour and texture of homegrown second early potatoes are often superior to those bought in stores, and they are less prone to diseases that affect later-maturing crops. They also free up garden space in time for autumn planting or a second crop, making them a practical choice for continuous gardening.

Where Can You Grow Second Early Potatoes?

Second early potatoes can be grown in a variety of locations, including traditional garden beds, raised beds, and containers. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them versatile enough for most UK gardens. If space is limited, consider growing second earlies in large pots or grow bags on a patio or balcony. Their mid-season harvest makes them a great choice for gardeners looking to enjoy fresh potatoes throughout the summer. With proper care, second early potatoes can be a rewarding and productive addition to any garden.

Why Second Early Potatoes from Marshalls?

• Our customers are supported by a team of experts dedicated to providing valuable advice. You can also use our growing guides, backed by 70 years of experience, to get the best results from your Second Early Potatoes.
• You can contact us six days a week – including bank holidays – to discuss our products and services or to chat about all things gardening.
• We pride ourselves on offering fast delivery on all orders, with any 'in stock' plants and seeds sent out within three working days. We're green-fingered in more ways than one, too, thanks to our fully recyclable packaging.
• We won second place at the 2022 Great British Growing Awards for Best Online Retailer.
• Thousands of five-star reviews on Feefo and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products show that we're a company you can trust.