True potato seeds (TPS) are tiny, like tomato seeds, and available from specialty sellers online (Cultivariable, Etsy, or Amazon).
These are not the new advanced Ohalo Genetics seeds, which are currently available only to industry-+. These are regular potato seeds. Expect more variation than store-bought tubers, you'll get a mix of potato surprises and that can be fun.
Quick Steps for Beginners:
1. Start indoors 6'8 weeks before your last frost date (late winter/early spring for most zones). Use seed trays or small pots with good potting mix.
2. Sow shallowly, Press the tiny seeds lightly into moist soil, cover with just inch of mix (they need light to germinate well). Keep at 60'75'F with bright light (grow lights are ideal).
3. Germination takes 1'3 weeks. Seedlings resemble tiny tomato or pepper plants.
4. Transplant outdoors after frost danger passes. Space 12'18 inches apart in rows in full sun. Hill up soil around stems as they grow (just like regular potatoes).
5. Care, Water consistently (keep soil moist but not soggy), fertilize lightly, and watch for potato beetles. Plants may flower and even set small green berries (those contain more seeds!).
6. Harvest in 90'150 days. Dig when tops die back. First-generation tubers may be smaller or uneven, but pick your favorites and save the best ones to replant as clones next year.
Tips for Success:
– Start small'a packet of 50'100 seeds is plenty for experimenting.
– In hot climates, aim for spring or fall planting to avoid tuber issues in summer heat.
– Have fun! You might discover a unique potato variety of your own.
