What to do with potatoes after spring frosts: advice for gardeners

What to do with potatoes after spring frosts: advice for gardeners

Spring frosts are a real test for gardeners. Young potatoes that have just sprouted and have not yet had time to gain strength are especially vulnerable during this period. A drop in temperature to -1...-3°C can harm young sprouts, even if they have already broken through to the surface. If the temperature drops below -4°C, the probability of the above-ground part of the plant dying increases sharply.

Signs of frost damage are noticeable within a few days: the leaves become dark, watery, wither and later turn black. However, do not rush to conclusions - potatoes have the ability to recover, and in many cases, plants send out new shoots from the buds on the stem. It is important to give the crop time and create favorable conditions for rehabilitation.

The first thing to do is to assess the extent of the damage. If only the tops are affected, but the stem remains alive, the potatoes will recover without any additional action. However, if the frosts were severe and the plant looks dead, you can carefully hill the bush or even plant a reserve seedling, if time permits.

The second important step is top dressing. After cold stress, plants need support. The best option is to apply nitrogen fertilizers, which stimulate the growth of green mass. It is also advisable to spray potatoes with growth stimulants, such as epin or zircon, which help activate the plant's defense mechanisms.

Do not forget about mulching. A layer of organic mulch (straw, hay, compost) helps to even out soil temperature, reduces humidity fluctuations and reduces the risk of re-infection in the event of new cold snaps. If the forecast promises repeated frosts, the plants can be protected with agrofibre or film.

After the potato vegetation resumes, it is important to monitor signs of diseases that may appear due to a weakening of the plant's immunity. Affected bushes are especially vulnerable to late blight and other fungal infections, so treating with preventive fungicides would be a smart move.