Yukon Gem

Potato

Zone 3b Save Garden

🌱 90d to harvest Spreading

Buttery-gold Yukon Gem tubers emerge with a luminous, sunlit glow—smooth-skinned and wonderfully even in shape. Their flesh is te…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	May 19th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 19th
Harvest Begins	Aug 17th
Harvest Ends	Sep 21st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	90
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Spreading
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

Recommended Companions

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most common on Solanum tuberosum (potato) in home gardens, and how can I control it?

Late blight (water-soaked leaf spots that quickly spread with a grayish growth underside) is one of the most damaging diseases for Solanum tuberosum, especially in cool, humid weather. Remove and discard infected leaves and stems, then protect remaining growth by spraying a labeled fungicide suitable for potatoes per the label schedule. Improve airflow by spacing plants properly and avoid wetting foliage when irrigating.

How often should I water Yukon Gem potatoes during the main growing phase, and what soil moisture level should I keep?

During bulking (once plants are established and flowering begins), keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged—aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) of water per week total, adjusted for rainfall. Water deeply so moisture reaches the root zone, and stop short of soaking beds because soggy soil can reduce tuber quality and increase disease pressure. Mulch lightly to steady moisture, especially after hill-soil is added.

How can I tell when Yukon Gem (Solanum tuberosum) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the plants reach maturity—about 90 days—with foliage turning yellow/brown and dying back naturally. You can gently dig around the edges of the plant to check tuber size; Yukon Gem is typically ready when tubers hold firm skin that doesn’t rub off easily. For the best storage skins, wait about 7–10 days after the plants fully die back before lifting the crop.

Buttery-gold Yukon Gem tubers emerge with a luminous, sunlit glow—smooth-skinned and wonderfully even in shape. Their flesh is tender and creamy-textured, delivering a rich, mellow flavor that shines when roasted to a caramelized edge, mashed into silky comfort, or simmered into hearty sauces and soups. A dependable 90-day choice for gardeners who want dependable harvest quality with a classic Yukon Gold market character.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

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

Expert Note

Plant seed potatoes when soil is workable and consistently warm enough, then hill as plants grow to protect tubers from sun.