Viking Purple

Potato

Zone 2b Save Garden

🌱 95d to harvest Upright

Viking Purple delivers a dramatic, velvety purple skin that hints at the rich color within—earthy and deeply satisfying with a nu…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	May 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 15th
Harvest Begins	Aug 18th
Harvest Ends	Aug 25th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	95
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	45
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	28
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Recommended Companions

Elephant Garlic Garlic

Frequently Asked Questions

What common pest or disease affects Solanum tuberosum (potato) most, and how do I treat it?

Late blight (Phytophthora infestans) is a frequent, fast-moving issue on potatoes, especially after cool, wet weather. Remove and discard any plants with brown, water-soaked leaf spots or rapidly collapsing foliage, then prevent spread by applying a labeled late-blight protectant and keeping plants evenly spaced for airflow. If you spot leaf damage early, reapply according to the product label, since new growth can quickly become infected.

How often should I water potatoes during the main growing phase?

After plants emerge and start building vines, keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy, typically about 1–1.5 inches of water per week depending on your weather. Water deeply when the top 1 inch of soil begins to dry, because uneven moisture can lead to misshapen tubers. Avoid soaking the foliage late in the day—use soil-level watering to reduce disease pressure.

How do I know when Solanum tuberosum (potato) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the plants’ foliage yellows and dies back naturally and the tuber skins feel firm and “set” (about 95 days from planting for this variety’s maturity window). For new potatoes you can dig earlier, but for best skin set wait until the tops fully die down. Gently dig one hill first to check size and skin firmness before harvesting the rest.

Viking Purple delivers a dramatic, velvety purple skin that hints at the rich color within—earthy and deeply satisfying with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is tender and creamy when cooked, with a smooth, fine-grained texture that holds its character beautifully for hearty meals. Grow Viking Purple for standout color in the garden and a striking presence on the plate, whether roasted to caramel-brown edges or mashed into silky purple comfort.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 28°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Plant certified seed potatoes 2–4 in deep in cool soil as soon as the ground is workable, and hill as plants reach 8–10 in to increase tuber yield.