Potatoes From Market Probably Won’t Grow

Q: Can I plant potatoes from pieces of potatoes that I buy at the market?

A: You can, but they probably won’t grow. Potatoes sold in the markets are often treated with a chemical that inhibits their sprouting ability and therefore prolongs their shelf life. However, some don’t receive this treatment and they will grow. You can buy seed potatoes at many Southland nurseries. They usually stock them from late December through February.