Proper and timely hilling is essential for a successful potato harvest. This agricultural technique, which involves mounding soil around the potato plants, promotes tuber development.

Hilling should commence when potato plants reach approximately 20 centimeters in height, typically around mid- to late June. At least two hillings are recommended per season, with the second occurring three to four weeks after the first.

The primary benefit of hilling is to create loose soil conditions, which potatoes favor for tuber formation. This process encourages a greater yield within each plant “nest.”

It is important to avoid hilling potatoes during the hottest parts of the day. The ideal time is late evening or on cloudy days.

Before hilling, ensure the potato patch is thoroughly weeded. The hilling process involves raking soil around each plant to create a mound approximately 10–20 centimeters high, leaving the green foliage exposed.

Traditional hilling tools include a hoe and a manual hiller. A hoe is used to rake soil around each plant individually, while a manual hiller can be used to push soil apart in the row spacings.

For larger potato fields, machinery such as walk-behind tractors and cultivators equipped with hilling attachments are beneficial. These machines streamline the process by pushing soil apart as they move along the rows.

Watering is also a crucial aspect of potato care. In hot, dry summers, potatoes should be watered at least twice a month. If rainfall is adequate, watering once a month is sufficient.

Watering should commence when the plants reach 10–15 centimeters in height, but not immediately after planting. It’s important to water only when nighttime temperatures are above +10 degrees Celsius to avoid harming the plants.

The most critical time for watering is when the plants begin to bud, as this is when they are developing tubers. Aim for approximately 2–3 liters of water per plant, using a sprayer to avoid soil erosion.