Earthing up is an important horticultural practice carried out in potato cultivation. It involves the piling of soil around the potato plant to protect it from pests, weeds, and sunlight. Ideally, earthing up should be carried out at specific times during the growth cycle of the potato plant. In this article, we will discuss the timing of earthing up in potato crop.
The timing of earthing up depends on the stage of growth of the potato plant. The first earthing up is usually done when the plant has reached a height of about 15cm. This is usually two to three weeks after planting. The first earthing up is aimed at protecting the potato tubers from sunlight, which can turn them green. The green potatoes are toxic to humans and animals because of the presence of solanine. Therefore, the first earth up protects the plant from sunlight and ensures that the potato tubers stay healthy and safe.
The second earthing up is typically performed four weeks after the first earthing up. At this stage, the potato plant is taller, and the stems have become longer. The second earthing up helps to control the growth of weeds around the potato plant. The soil piled around the potato plant makes it difficult for weed seeds to germinate. It also helps to control the spread of fungal diseases that can affect the potato plant.
The third and final earthing up is performed about six to eight weeks after the second earthing up. At this stage, the potato plant is fully grown, and the potato tubers are maturing. The third earthing up helps to support the plant, prevent lodging and improve the quality of the potato tubers. It also provides the necessary conditions for the potato plant to continue to grow and mature.
In conclusion, earthing up is a crucial horticultural practice in potato cultivation. The timing of earthing up depends on the stage of growth of the potato plant. The first earthing up is done two to three weeks after planting, the second earthing up is performed four weeks after the first, and the last earthing up is done six to eight weeks after the second. By following the appropriate timing of earthing up, farmers can improve the quality and yield of their potato crop.