Potatoes are another cool-season crop that can be grown in a range USDA Plant Hardiness Zones. They are typically grown in zones 3 to 10, with some variations based on the specific type of potato being grown. Here are examples of U.S. states in each growing zone where potatoes can be grown:
Zone 3: Includes parts of:
- Montana
- North Dakota
- Minnesota
Zone 4: Some states in this zone are:
- Wisconsin
- Michigan
- Maine
Zone 5: Some states in this zone are:
- Illinois
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
Zone 6: Some states in this zone are:
- Virginia
- Tennessee
- Missouri
Zone 7: Some states in this zone are:
- North Carolina
- Georgia
- Arkansas
Zone 8: Some states in this zone are:
- Texas
- Louisiana
- Northern parts of Florida
Zone 9: Some states in this zone are:
- California
- Arizona
- Parts of Texas
- Parts of Florida
Zone 10: Some states in this zone are:
- Hawaii
- Southernmost parts of Florida
Potatoes are adaptable and can be grown in various climates, but they do best in cooler temperatures.
Growing potatoes indoors is possible, especially if you’re looking to start them early in the season or if you have limited outdoor space. However, growing them entirely indoors throughout their lifecycle can be challenging due to their growth habits and space requirements.
To grow potatoes indoors, you’ll need large containers or bags with good drainage and enough depth for the plants to develop tubers. Plant seed potatoes in the containers with well-draining soil. As the plants grow, add more soil to cover the stems, leaving a few inches exposed. This encourages more tubers to form along the covered stems.
Indoor-grown potatoes will need strong, full-spectrum grow lights to mimic sunlight. Adequate light is essential for healthy foliage growth and tuber development. While you can harvest some “new” or small potatoes indoors, for a substantial harvest of mature tubers, it’s generally recommended to transplant the indoor-grown plants outside into the garden or larger containers when the weather is suitable. This allows the plants to fully develop and produce larger yields.
Check out the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and find out what zone your zip code is located in here. Or you can use our map to get a general idea of what your plant hardiness zone is.
Were do you get potatoes seeds? Do you just use a potato as a seed. Can I plant them in early Spring? I am in northeast Ohio 7 miles south of Lake Erie on the freeway.