How do spuds grow?

[David]

Morning all

I have some spuds growing well in a container about 3 feet high in the greenhouse. Tops are about 4.5 ft high.

Things is I forgot to top them up with earth so the stuff is only about a foot deep, so the question is if I top up now will I get more spuds or is it too late. They arent ready to flower yet.

Thanks

David

[richard p]

Hi david, not topping it up wont help, topping up might help and will stop any spuds allready there breaking through the surface (and going green) as they swell, therefore i would top up. ample watering will also have a big effect on the size of the spuds
regards richard

[John]

The main thing now is stop light getting to the tubers as these will push themselves upwards as they form in the limited amount of soil in your bucket. A lot of topping up with soil at this stage might cause the covered stems and leaves to rot. I would top up by pushing straw down into the bucket around the stems. A layer of straw is surprisingly good at excluding light and you will still be able to water easily. Also you will still be able to feel right down into the bucket and scrabble about for some tubers!

John