The tops of potatoes turned yellow. Is it possible to dig, or is it still growing?

Even not the most experienced gardeners paid attention to the fact that at a certain period the potato tops begin to turn yellow and lie down. At the same time, a lot of time must pass before the expected harvest.

Here the question often arises: are the corresponding changes a signal for harvesting or not.

Experienced gardeners claim that during this period, the growth of the crop stops: the tubers no longer increase in size, there is no photosynthesis, and food is not supplied.

Thus, the yellowing and lodging of the tops is associated with two circumstances: the crop is really already ripe or the culture is sick.

In the first case, the solution is quite simple: you just need to start harvesting, and everything will be in order. The second option is more complex and requires urgent action. It is necessary to begin treatment immediately so that the disease does not spread to the tubers.

Digging up potato tubers too early is not recommended. So, back in early August, they have a poorly formed peel, which can be easily touched with nails or a shovel and damaged.

Such damage is highly undesirable, since the peel performs a protective function. Spoiled potatoes will not last long.
Even if the tubers do not increase in size, they still need to lie down in the soil for a few more weeks to build up the skin.

Based on this, we can conclude that even if the potato tops have already died and turned yellow, it is necessary to wait a few more weeks for the peel to become denser.

However, it should be remembered that the tubers will no longer increase in size, but will only get stronger. At the same time, you do not need to wait for the branches to dry completely.

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