Care
Potato is originally from the Andes in South America. Potato has been cultivated in India for the last 300 years and it has become one of the most popular crops there. Potatoes are grown for their edible tubers which are economical food as they provide a source of low-cost energy to humans. Potatoes have rich nutritional value as they are rich in starch, vitamins (especially C and B1), and minerals. Potatoes are also used for several industrial purposes such as for the production of starch and alcohol.
Soil
Potatoes can be grown almost on any type of soil except saline and alkaline soils. Soils that are naturally loose and offer the least resistance to tuber growth is preferred. Loamy and sandy loam soils, rich in organic matter and with good drainage and aeration are most suitable for cultivation of potato crop. Soils with pH range of 5.2-6.4 are considered to be ideal.
Climate
Potato is a temperate climate crop, however it grows under a diverse range of climatic conditions. It is grown only in places where the growing season's temperature is moderately cool. The vegetative growth of the plant is best at a temperature of 24°C while tuber development is favoured at 20°C. Hence, potato is grown as a summer crop in the hills and as a winter crop in the tropical and subtropical regions. The crop can be raised up to an altitude of 3000 m above the sea level.
