2026 Planting Guide
Fall cropWhen to Plant Potatoes in India
Complete guide to growing potatoes in India with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from national agricultural research organizations and FAO.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the potatoes growing season in India.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
10°C (50°F) minimum
Growing Period
90-120 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
N/A
Tropical climate
First Fall Frost
N/A
No frost risk
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing potatoes in India.
January
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
February - March
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
April - September
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
October - November
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
December
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
Best Potatoes Varieties for India
These varieties have proven performance in India's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kufri Jyoti | India climate |
| 2 | Kufri Pukhraj | India climate |
| 3 | Kufri Bahar | India climate |
| 4 | Kufri Sindhuri | India climate |
Growing Tips for India
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced India farmers.
UP and West Bengal are #1 and #2 producer states
Rabi crop: plant October-November
Late blight is devastating — use Mancozeb + Metalaxyl
Cold storage is critical — 2-4°C for seed, 10-12°C for table
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Colorado potato beetle
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Late blight
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Wireworms
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Potato tuberworm
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside potatoes, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
No Frost Risk
India has a tropical or subtropical climate. Frost is generally not a concern, but altitude-dependent cold spells can occur in some areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant potatoes in India?
The optimal planting window for potatoes in India is October 15 to November 30. Soil temperature should reach at least 10°C (50°F) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 90-120 days.
What varieties of potatoes grow best in India?
The best varieties for India include Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Pukhraj, Kufri Bahar, Kufri Sindhuri. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest potatoes in India?
The harvest window for potatoes in India is typically February 1 to March 31. The crop takes 90-120 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research), state agricultural universities, and FAO India. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.