Potato Maris Peer (Second Early Seed Potato)

Potato Maris Peer is best grown in early to mid-April, being a second early potato variety. Before doing so, however, they will benefit from being chitted as this will produce larger tubers. This is done by putting your seed potatoes in egg boxes in a cool, bright spot with the blunt end up. Over time, you will see the shoots develop. You should stop chitting when the shoots are approximately 1 ½ to 2½ cm (½ to 1in) long.

Once this length has been reached, you should plant your Potato Maris Peer seed potatoes in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Your potatoes will benefit from being grown with the addition of fertiliser or well-rotted manure. You should plant them in an area you haven't grown potatoes in within two years to avoid disease developing.

Plant your seed potatoes in trenches 4-6in (10-15cm) deep, backfilling soil once planted. They should be spaced 14in (35cm) apart, with rows 18in (45cm) apart. You should mound up the soil around the stems as they grow to prevent your potatoes from turning green and water your plants well during dry spells.

Your potatoes will be ready for harvesting when flowers first start to form, which should be between July and August.

For additional information, our guide on how to grow potatoes has many more expert tips for you to grow delicious crops.

Maris Peer potatoes have a slightly waxy, smooth, firm texture. They also have a great flavour, being subtle but buttery.

Maris Peer potatoes are known for their versatility in cooking. They're ideal for boiling, roasting, chipping, steaming, and more, making them an ideal choice for any grower.