Topic: Large seed potatoes - can they be halved?

[davetedd]

Hi I have just bought some Charlotte 2nd earlies and they are huge - 10 weigh 1.5Kg. Is it possible to cut them in half and use them so I can get some more plants in? Will doing that reduce the yield per plant? Thanks

[saddad]

Yes as long as there are "eyes" on both bits... no It shouldn't reduce yeild.  :)

[PurpleHeather]

I have known potatoes grow from the peelings which have had bits sprouting out of them, on the compost heap and 'during the war' people would get several plants from a big chitting potato by splitting it up.

Just one thing, I do not think it works if you cut them up too soon. I am almost certain that they have to be divided as they are planted.

Some one correct me if I am wrong.

[redimp]

Not divided as planted as the split bit has to dry out and cure to stop it rotting.  I don't know what the soonest is though.