It’s time to plant potatoes

De'Anthony Price UF/IFAS Ag Agent – Jefferson County People love eating potatoes, and farmers love planting them. Traditionally, Valentine's Day is a known date for growing potatoes. This tradition goes back generations. Potato planting time in North Florida is during the coldest months of January to February, although Feb. 14 is a popular planting day. The taste and texture of homegrown potatoes are far superior to those of store-bought spuds! Garden potatoes also provide a bounty of nutrients. The potato (Solanum tuberosum) is a member of the nightshade family. This cool-weather vegetable typically yields bigger crops in the northern portion of the U.S.; however, potatoes can be grow