SproutSmart
SproutSmart Intelligent Garden Sowing

German Butterball

Potato

Planting Schedule

Add German Butterball to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of German Butterball
95d to harvest

Velvety, golden flesh with a whisper of buttered sweetness—German Butterball delivers a richly satisfying, roast-worthy flavor and a tender, creamy texture that feels almost luminous from the first bite. This heirloom potato forms attractive, oval tubers with warm russet-brown skins and deep, even color inside, making it a favorite for home gardeners who love dependable harvests at about 95 days. Grow it for standout pan-roasting and comforting mashes, or for hearty slices that hold their shape beautifully in rustic preparations.

Crop Dates

MilestoneDate
Start IndoorsDirect Sow
Last FrostMay 25th
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsMay 25th
Harvest BeginsAug 28th
Harvest EndsAug 29th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity95
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitClumping
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)45
Min Soil Temp (°F)45
Min Night Temp (°F)35
Harden Off (days)Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions


How often should I water German Butterball potato during the main growing phase?
During active tuber bulking (roughly mid-season through about 75% of the way to maturity), keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged—about 1–2 inches of water per week depending on heat and soil type. Aim to water deeply after the top 1 inch of soil dries, and stop regular watering as the vines start to yellow so tubers can firm up. Consistent moisture prevents misshapen tubers; soggy soil increases rot risk.
How do I know when German Butterball potatoes are ready to harvest?
Harvest when plants reach about 95 days from planting and the foliage begins to die back naturally. For “new” potatoes, you can dig earlier, but for full-size German Butterball, wait until skins are set—scrape a tuber gently with your thumb; it should not rub off easily. Choose a dry day, dig carefully, and cure the tubers for about 1–2 weeks in a cool, dark, humid place if you plan to store them.
Botanical illustration of German Butterball

Velvety, golden flesh with a whisper of buttered sweetness—German Butterball delivers a richly satisfying, roast-worthy flavor and a tender, creamy texture that feels almost luminous from the first bite. This heirloom potato forms attractive, oval tubers with warm russet-brown skins and deep, even color inside, making it a favorite for home gardeners who love dependable harvests at about 95 days. Grow it for standout pan-roasting and comforting mashes, or for hearty slices that hold their shape beautifully in rustic preparations.