Russet Burbank

Potato

Zone 12b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Russet Burbank

🌱 95d to harvest Mounding

Earthy, deeply russeted skins with a warm, nutty aroma greet you from the soil—Russet Burbank delivers a classic, dependable russ…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jan 1st
Harvest Begins	Apr 6th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	95
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Mounding
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	50
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most often affects Solanum tuberosum (Russet Burbank potatoes), and how can I control it?

Early blight (Alternaria) is a common problem on Solanum tuberosum, showing as brown, target-like spots on older leaves that spread upward. Remove and destroy infected foliage early, avoid wetting the leaves when watering, and apply a labeled potato fungicide when spots first appear. Keep plants spaced for airflow and rotate potato families so the disease doesn’t build up in the soil.

How often should I water Russet Burbank potatoes during the main growing phase (bulking tubers)?

During bulking (after plants form sturdy stems), keep soil evenly moist—typically about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week, adjusted for heat and rainfall. Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry, then stop before water pools, since soggy soil can reduce tuber quality. Maintain moisture consistency because irregular watering can lead to cracking or misshapen tubers.

How do I know when Russet Burbank potatoes are ready to harvest?

Harvest when the plants’ foliage has yellowed and dies back naturally, which for Solanum tuberosum is usually around 95 days from planting. For “new” potatoes you can harvest early, but for full-size Russet-type storage tubers, wait for dieback. Before lifting, gently dig one tuber to confirm skins are tough enough that they won’t rub off easily.

Earthy, deeply russeted skins with a warm, nutty aroma greet you from the soil—Russet Burbank delivers a classic, dependable russet profile with a fluffy, fine-grained interior. Expect sturdy, oval tubers that roast up beautifully, turning crisp on the outside while staying tender within; they’re equally at home for hearty mashes and thick, velvety sauces. Grow this 95-day favorite for a reliable harvest that feels truly “old-fashioned” in flavor and texture.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Plant seed potatoes once soil is workable and warm enough, then hill as plants grow to keep tubers covered and prevent greening.