Potatoes should generally be planted at a depth of about 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm), depending on soil type and planting method:
- In heavier soils, plant potatoes shallower, about 2 inches (5 cm) deep, to avoid rot
- In lighter, looser soils, a depth of 3 to 4 inches (8 cm) is suitable
- A common recommendation is to dig a trench about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) deep and place seed potatoes spaced 10 to 12 inches apart in the trench
- Deep planting at 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 cm) is possible in loose, well-draining soil and can reduce the need for hilling, but it may delay emergence and increase the risk of rot in heavy or cool soils
- For container growing, plant seed pieces 4 to 6 inches deep with adequate spacing
In summary, planting depth varies with soil type and growing method but typically ranges from 2 to 8 inches, with shallower planting in heavy soils and deeper planting in loose soils or raised beds. Proper depth prevents tubers from greening (if too shallow) or rotting (if too deep)
