La Ratte

Potato

Zone 12a Save Garden

🌱 90d to harvest Spreading

A whisper of earth and a gentle, nutty sweetness rise from La Ratte’s slender fingerlings—golden skins that feel satin-smooth and…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Dec 25th
Harvest Begins	Mar 25th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	90
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Spreading
Support Needed	Hill
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	55
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	40
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Recommended Companions

Napoletano Basil Basil

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Solanum tuberosum (potatoes), and what should I do if I see it?

Late blight (often driven by cool, wet weather) can show up as dark, water-soaked leaf patches with rapid browning and a fuzzy growth on undersides. Remove and discard affected foliage immediately, then spray a labeled fungicide for late blight protection according to the product directions. To slow spread, avoid overhead watering and keep plants spaced so leaves dry quickly after rain or irrigation.

How often should I water Solanum tuberosum during the main growing phase to support tuber formation?

During the main growth (roughly weeks 4–10 after planting, when plants are forming stems and starting to size tubers), keep soil consistently evenly moist but not waterlogged. In most home gardens this means watering deeply about 1–2 times per week, increasing frequency during warm, dry spells, with a target of roughly 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of water per week. Stop heavy watering when foliage begins yellowing near maturity to reduce the risk of tuber rot.

How can I tell when La Ratte potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) are ready to harvest?

Harvest when plants reach about 90 days and the foliage naturally starts to yellow and die back; for best flavor, let the skin set for about 7–14 days after the leaves die. Check by gently digging at the edge of the row and look for tubers with firm skins that don’t rub off easily. Avoid waiting until the soil stays wet and cold, as this increases the chance of tuber disease.

A whisper of earth and a gentle, nutty sweetness rise from La Ratte’s slender fingerlings—golden skins that feel satin-smooth and flesh that turns buttery-tender with a fine, creamy bite. Each tuber is characterful and uniform in length, with a warm yellow cast and a lightly speckled, rustic charm that makes every harvest look like a small treasure. Ideal for showcasing in simple, high-flavor preparations—roasting to a bronzed finish, pan-searing for crisp edges, or boiling for velvety, spoonable texture in salads and elegant sauces.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 40°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Plant certified seed potatoes and hill up as plants emerge to keep tubers covered and prevent greening.