Allotments 4 All

Hi all

Just been down the allotment and thought I'd have a look to see how the Kestrels are doing - and ended up digging / picking my first potato. Seem to be loads of little chaps under there, all about 1 1/3 inches long - they look great but appear to have some purple marks on them. Is this a problem, and are they ok for eating, or is the purple bad or is it too early?

Very excited and eager for advice

David

Hi Pieman
Kestrel have purple patches, they are a good variety, I grow them for my second earlies. I have just eaten my 2nd dig of earlies, "Rocket" not the same flavour of kestrel but still a good first potato.
Regards
Squashman

Wonderful news - thanks for the quick reply.

Well, I'm off to steam my single spud...


D

Quoteappear to have some purple marks on them.

Because of thes 'purple marks' this variety is classified as a 'coloured potato' as opposed to white.

I think you are being a bit impatient! they are second earlies and as the title suggests they come later than the earlies that some of the others are eating now.

A sure sign that they are ready is to wait till the leaves start to change colour i.e. start to yellow.

This is a picture of what yours might look like when ready!



ps My lot have just emerged in the last couple of days!

As TG says a little early but a must every year, they can grow really big so be patient and they are a lovely colour.  ;D ;D ;D

Does the yellowing of leaves apply to first earlies or is it just seconds. WSuch a lot to learn.
Janet

Seconds. First earlies can be lifted as soon as they have spuds under them. Wait till they flower, and have a firkle.