2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Potatoes in Kansas
Complete guide to growing potatoes in Kansas with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from USDA and state extension services.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the potatoes growing season in Kansas. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
45°F (7°C) minimum
Growing Period
80-110 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
April 15
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
October 15
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing potatoes in Kansas.
January - February
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
March - April
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
May - June
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
July - September
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
October - December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Potatoes Varieties for Kansas
These varieties have proven performance in Kansas's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Red Norland | Kansas climate |
| 2 | Yukon Gold | Kansas climate |
| 3 | Kennebec | Kansas climate |
| 4 | Russet Norkotah | Kansas climate |
Growing Tips for Kansas
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Kansas farmers.
Eastern KS: plant mid-March
Mulch heavily to keep soil cool in summer heat
Harvest before soil temp exceeds 80°F
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
Last Spring Frost
April 15
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
October 15
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant potatoes in Kansas?
The optimal planting window for potatoes in Kansas is March 15 to April 15. Soil temperature should reach at least 45°F (7°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 80-110 days.
What varieties of potatoes grow best in Kansas?
The best varieties for Kansas include Red Norland, Yukon Gold, Kennebec, Russet Norkotah. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest potatoes in Kansas?
The harvest window for potatoes in Kansas is typically July 1 to September 30. The crop takes 80-110 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Kansas Cooperative Extension Service, and NOAA frost date records. 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.