2026 Planting Guide
Spring cropWhen to Plant Potatoes in Missouri
Complete guide to growing potatoes in Missouri 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 Missouri. 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 10
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
October 18
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing potatoes in Missouri.
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 Missouri
These varieties have proven performance in Missouri's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Red Norland | Missouri climate |
| 2 | Yukon Gold | Missouri climate |
| 3 | Kennebec | Missouri climate |
| 4 | Irish Cobbler | Missouri climate |
Growing Tips for Missouri
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Missouri farmers.
Among earliest crops to plant in MO
Southern MO: plant late February to March
Fall crop: plant August for November harvest
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 10
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
October 18
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant potatoes in Missouri?
The optimal planting window for potatoes in Missouri is March 10 to April 10. 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 Missouri?
The best varieties for Missouri include Red Norland, Yukon Gold, Kennebec, Irish Cobbler. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest potatoes in Missouri?
The harvest window for potatoes in Missouri 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, Missouri 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.