Do I need to thin potato plants?

[snozzleberry]

Hi all,
I am new to gardening and am wondering if it is necessary to thin my potato plants. I planted pieces with three eyes each and about two plants are coming up every 18 inches or so.
Thanks

 

[Greenthumb18]

I think it is necessary as you only want the most for 3 shoots to emerge. I know I have to thin mine out a lot, I have too many sprouts.

Hope this helps!

 

[digitS']

I read something about thinning research just a few months ago but can't remember where.

It seems like the conclusion was that it is best to have the seed cut properly to begin with because thinning is a bit of a stress on the remaining plants. I think 3 eyes on each piece sounds good to me, anyway.

If the plants are too crowded, you may have smaller tubers than you had hoped but that may not be of serious importance to you.

Steve

 

[snozzleberry]

Thanks all.
I appreciate the responses.