Potatos are out of control......can I cut back?

[DDRanch]

I am a potato newbie and planted red and blue several months ago. The foliage has doubled from the picture below, and has some violet flowers. The plants is also taking over the area. Next year I will give them more room, but meanwhile, can I cut them back without damage to the potatos?

Thanks for your help.

Anne

 

[Dace]

Ican't help you as I hav enot even planted mine yet...but wanted to tell you what a nive photo that is. Very pretty

 

[Tutter]

Hi, Adondro!

I hope the smoke's not been too bad down there!

What did you plant them in, soil-wise? Did you give them compost? Have you been feeding them?

 

[DDRanch]

Hi Tutter,
We have been out of smoke for the last week or so. Thank Goodness.

The soil/compost we got from the dump. Pretty rich I think as the corn and sunflowers are going great. Another pic below. I am embarassed to admit I have not fed anything yet. I have miracle grow and usually I use that.....

Can I cut them back or just be grateful they are growing so well?

 

[Tutter]

That's good to hear!

If it were me, I'd just let them do their thing. :happy_flower

(Uhm, don't feed them!)

 

[silkiechicken]

I wouldn't cut them back. More leaves, more flowers, and you gritting your teeth and letting them slowly die back to a ugly brown mass is what gives you ALOT of potatoes. The bigger your plants when they flower, the more potatoes you'll get!

 

[DDRanch]

Hi Silkie,
Great. Then I am in for a whole lot of taters. I am excited to see if they taste any different from store bought. I bet they will, I just have never had the opportunity until now. Can't wait.
Anne

 

[Reinbeau]

They taste fresher, crisper, and sweeter than store bought potatoes, I just love them fresh from the garden!