2026 Planting Guide
Winter cropWhen to Plant Potatoes in Texas
Complete guide to growing potatoes in Texas 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 Texas. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
50°F (10°C) minimum
Growing Period
90-110 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
March 15
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
November 15
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing potatoes in Texas.
January - February
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
March - April
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
May - July
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
August - December
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
Best Potatoes Varieties for Texas
These varieties have proven performance in Texas's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Atlantic | Texas climate |
| 2 | Red LaSoda | Texas climate |
| 3 | Yukon Gold | Texas climate |
| 4 | Kennebec | Texas climate |
Growing Tips for Texas
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced Texas farmers.
Rio Grande Valley — earliest US potato harvest
Plant in January for spring harvest
Sandy loam soils with furrow irrigation
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
March 15
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
November 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 Texas?
The optimal planting window for potatoes in Texas is January 15 to February 28. Soil temperature should reach at least 50°F (10°C) minimum before planting. The total growing period is 90-110 days.
What varieties of potatoes grow best in Texas?
The best varieties for Texas include Atlantic, Red LaSoda, Yukon Gold, Kennebec. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest potatoes in Texas?
The harvest window for potatoes in Texas is typically May 1 to July 1. The crop takes 90-110 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, Texas 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.