Growing Potatoes in Zone 4B

Potatoes are one of the most productive crops per square foot. Easy to grow and incredibly satisfying to harvest.

Zone 4B has a short growing season — start seeds indoors when possible and use season-extending techniques like cold frames and row covers.

Top Growing Tips

• Plant seed potatoes (not grocery store potatoes) 2-4 weeks before last frost
• Hill soil around stems as they grow to increase tuber production
• New potatoes can be harvested early; full-size after vines die back
• Green skin means solanine — don’t eat green potatoes
• Rotate planting location yearly to prevent disease

Companion Planting

Good companions: beans, corn, cabbage, horseradish, marigolds

Avoid planting near: tomatoes, squash, sunflowers (disease transfer)

Harvest Timeline

70-120 days depending on variety

About Zone 4B

USDA Hardiness Zone 4B has an average last spring frost around May 1 and first fall frost around Oct 1. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.