About Haida Seed Potatoes

A First-Nation variety originating from the Haida Gwaii region, known for their adaptability to northern climates and exceptional flavour. With a creamy texture and earthy taste, these potatoes are perfect for roasting, mashing, or adding to hearty soups and stews.

This early-maturing variety is ideal for gardeners with short growing seasons, producing a reliable and abundant harvest. Haida potatoes also store exceptionally well, ensuring a delicious supply throughout the winter months.

Companion plants like beans, corn, and marigolds grow well alongside Haida potatoes, deterring pests and improving soil health.

Where Can You Grow Haida Seed Potatoes

Haida potatoes thrive in well-draining soil with full sun and are well-suited for Zones 2-9. They grow well in traditional garden beds, raised beds, and containers, making them versatile for various gardening styles.

History and Historical Uses

In the late 1700s, Spanish conquistadors arrived on the BC coast and traded potato tubers from S. America with coastal First Nations. These are the original ‘Haida’ potatoes: a fingerling type with deep eyes that has been grown now in BC for 225+ years. Though rare they are still valued today for their thick, heavy flesh that is good both boiled or baked. By growing this potato and sharing extra tubers with friends you are helping to keep alive a piece of coastal history.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8-9: Plant seed potatoes in early spring for a summer harvest.
• Zones 5-7: Plant in mid-spring after the ground has warmed, harvesting in late summer or early autumn.
• Zones 2-4: Start planting as soon as the soil is workable in spring and harvest before the first frost.
  

How to Grow Haida Seed Potatoes

1. Prepare the Soil: Ensure well-drained, fertile soil. Add compost or organic matter to enrich the soil.
2. Planting: Cut seed potatoes into pieces with at least one eye per piece. Plant 10-15cm (4-6in) deep and 30-45cm (12-18in) apart in rows. Space rows 60cm (24in) apart.
3. Hilling: As the plants grow, mound soil around the stems to protect tubers and encourage higher yields.
4. Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
5. Harvesting: Harvest when the foliage dies back or earlier for smaller, new potatoes.

Saving Tips for Next Year

1. Select Healthy Tubers: After harvest, choose the healthiest, disease-free potatoes for seed saving. Medium-sized tubers with multiple eyes are ideal.
2. Cure the Potatoes: Lay the selected potatoes in a single layer in a dark, cool, and dry area for 1-2 weeks to cure. This helps to harden the skins and extend their storage life.
3. Store Properly: Store cured potatoes in a cool (4-10°C/40-50°F), dark, and well-ventilated space. Avoid plastic bags; use mesh bags or wooden crates to prevent moisture buildup.
4. Inspect Regularly: Check your stored potatoes periodically and remove any that show signs of rot or disease.
5. Prepare for Planting: Before planting next season, bring the potatoes to room temperature for a few days and allow sprouts to develop at the eyes. Cut larger potatoes into pieces with at least one eye each before planting.

Certified Organic by
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)