How to Manage Pests

Pests in Gardens and Landscapes

Harvesting and storing potatoes

Begin harvesting potatoes when they have reached the desired size. You can harvest a few at a time and keep the remainder in the ground until you are ready to eat them. When you "rob" potatoes, be careful not to damage the plant. Varieties grown for storage should be harvested when mature and the vines are dead. When the vines turn yellow, cut off the water and leave the potatoes in the ground for a few weeks to cure. Do not expose potatoes to sunlight as it will cause greening. The green portion is poisonous, bitter, and should not be eaten. Dig the potatoes up, allow them to dry, and store in a cool, dark location.

Harvest when potatoes reach the desired size

Statewide IPM Program, Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California


Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California

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