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Promotes Stronger Growth
Trimming or cutting seed potatoes allows you to focus the plant’s energy on fewer, more robust sprouts, leading to stronger, healthier plants.
Maximizes Seed Potato Use
Cutting larger seed potatoes into smaller pieces lets you plant more, increasing your potential yield while minimizing waste.
Reduces Risk of Rot
Removing excess or damaged portions prevents decay, ensuring the seeds are healthy when planted.
Encourages Uniform Growth
By trimming and spacing sprouts, you promote even development across your potato patch.
How to Trim Potatoes Before Planting
Step 1: Choose the Right Seed Potatoes
Use certified disease-free seed potatoes to ensure healthy plants.
Look for potatoes with “eyes” (small buds where sprouts emerge).
Step 2: Identify the Eyes
Inspect the potato and locate the eyes, as these are where the sprouts will grow.
Step 3: Cut the Potatoes
Use a clean, sharp knife to cut the potato into pieces. Each piece should have at least 2–3 healthy eyes.
For larger potatoes, cut them into sections roughly the size of a golf ball.
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