Troubleshooting
Potato problems — and how to fix them
Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Blight (Phytophthora)
Brown patches with white mould; cut off all top growth and harvest tubers within 2 weeks.
Hollow heart
Sudden growth surge after a check; consistent watering prevents it.
Common scab
Rough patches on skin; lower soil pH and water consistently.
Green tubers
Tuber exposed to light; earth up regularly.
Colorado potato beetle (US)
Hand-pick or rotate to deter; covers help.
Prevent potato problems before they start
Most potato issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Potato problems — FAQ
Why is my potato blight (phytophthora)?
Brown patches with white mould; cut off all top growth and harvest tubers within 2 weeks.
Why is my potato hollow heart?
Sudden growth surge after a check; consistent watering prevents it.
Why is my potato common scab?
Rough patches on skin; lower soil pH and water consistently.
Why is my potato green tubers?
Tuber exposed to light; earth up regularly.
Why is my potato colorado potato beetle (us)?
Hand-pick or rotate to deter; covers help.