Every gardener dreams of harvesting large and tasty potatoes that will store well all winter. The secret of success lies not only in the choice of variety, but also in the correct preparation of the planting hole.
A small additive placed in the soil when planting can work wonders: repel pests and add nutrition to the soil. Experienced summer residents know that replacing chemical fertilizers with natural ingredients makes tubers much healthier.
What to add to the hole when planting potatoes
It is recommended to put 3 peas, 1 handful of wood ash and a little onion peel into each hole. Peas play a major role here.
Small nitrogen balls – colonies of nodule bacteria – quickly form on their roots. These bacteria enrich the soil with available nitrogen, which is critical for the growth of large tubers.
Benefits of supplements and gardening tips
Peas not only fertilize the soil, but also serve as a natural protector. The Colorado potato beetle and wireworm try to avoid the beds with legumes.
In addition, this additive suppresses the growth of weeds and loosens the soil. If you don't have fresh peas, any beans or even lentils will do. The ash will protect against rot, and the onion peel will repel the larvae of the cockchafer.
Important: Don't bury the beans too deep! 5 cm is enough for them to germinate and start working for the harvest.
If you follow this method, the yield is impressive: you can get up to 12 kg of selected tubers from one bush, reports the author of the blog “My Dacha” (18+).
