Seed Potatoes

ColoradoFan

I'm starting my first garden this year and want to plant some potatoes.  We're planning on putting in 10 plants, and I'd love to experiment with a few different varieites to see what grows well in our area (Philly suburbs, zone 6).  Does anyone know of a good place to buy seed potatoes, but not in bulk?  All the places I've found online require a purchase of at least 5 pounds, and it doesn't seem worth spending $25 on seed potatoes and shippin for (if we're lucky) 20 pounds of potatoes.  If I buy potatoes at a farmers market could I use those? 

 Thanks in advance!

CookieAnne

I always always always recommend Seed Savers Exchange.  They sell heirloom seeds that have been handed down.  They sell in 2 1/2 lb, 5 lb, and 25 lb increments.  You may be able to use potatoes from the farmers market if they are not seeds with the kill gene.  Most likely at a farmer's market (particularly if it's certified) they won't have it, so you will probably be able to use those.  Buying seed, just gives you the option of getting exactly what you want.  Good luck on your garden.  

ColoradoFan

I love Seed Savers Exchange and drool over their catalogs.  I'll give them a try.  Thanks!!

CDMay2006

I have successfully grown potatoes from abandoned potatoes in our pantry, but i've heard that most people do not have success with this approach.  I think it would be reasonable for you to try it for a couple varieties, but go the traditional route for the rest.

And hello to you all on this board that i've just discovered  

redcabbage

Lowes/HD sell potato seeds in 10 seed units.

Roccityhottie

You can just pick out a few varities from the grocery store and store them in a warm moist environment, not too wet or they will rot, and the eyes on the potatoes should sprout, once the eyes have sprouted you can cut each eye with a piece of potato and this will become a plant. Try if you like, but if you would rather be sure, get seed potatoes

Pescalita

Lurker chiming in super late, but Natural Gardening Company has great seed potatoes in 1lb increments. This is the second year I've planted them, didn't water much, didn't protect from cold, kinda forgot about them and almost called them a lost cause, and once again they've all germinated. Looking forward to a big harvest. 

http://www.naturalgardening.com/