Potato Charlotte (Second Early Seed Potato) AGM

As second earlies, Potato Charlotte seed potatoes benefit from being chitted for bigger crops. You can do this by putting your seed potatoes in egg boxes in a cool, bright spot with the blunt end up. Then, allow the shoots to develop until approximately 1 ½ to 2½ cm (½ to 1in) long.

After chitting, plant your Potato Charlotte seed potatoes in early to mid-April in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Be sure to add fertiliser or well-rotted manure. You should plant them in an area you haven't grown potatoes in within two years to avoid disease developing.

Plant your seed potatoes in trenches 4-6in (10-15cm) deep, backfilling soil once planted. They should be spaced 14in (35cm) apart, with rows 18in (45cm) apart. You should mound up the soil around the stems as they grow to prevent your potatoes from turning green and water your plants well during dry spells.

Your potatoes will be ready for harvest when flowers first start to form, which should be around July or August.

If you're looking for further advice, you can read our guide on how to grow potatoes with many more expert tips.

As a second early variety, Potato Charlotte tubers will mature and be ready for harvest in around 13-15 weeks from planting.

Potato Charlotte plants produce small- to medium-sized tubers that have tender skin and an enjoyable waxy texture. This makes them perfect for salads as well as french fries.