From Kennebec to Burbank Russet, a look at 10 types of potatoes, their characteristics and how they fit into your planting strategy for your homestead.

The Ultimate Guide to Selecting and Growing Potato Varieties

Potatoes are more than just a staple food; they are a culinary delight that varies significantly in flavor, texture, and color. This guide to ten popular potato varieties will  help you choose the right type for your cooking needs but also provide essential tips for growing them in your garden.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener looking to expand your crop diversity or a home chef eager to explore different flavors, this article offers valuable insights into each variety’s characteristics, culinary uses, and optimal growing conditions. Explore the versatile Kennebec, the creamy Yukon Gold, and the striking Purple Peruvian, among others, and learn how to nurture and harvest these beloved tubers to perfection.

1. Kennebec: A Versatile Favorite

Description and Best Use

Kennebec potatoes are celebrated for their smooth skin and creamy texture, making them versatile for frying, baking, and mashing.

Origin & Trivia

Originating from Maine, named after the Kennebec River, this variety was introduced in the 1940s and is loved for its adaptability to various climates and soil types.

Kennebec Potato Growing Tips

Plant in well-drained soil and water regularly, especially during tuber formation, to ensure optimal growth.

Harvesting and Storage

Kennebec potatoes mature in about 80-100 days and store excellently through winter if kept in cool, dry conditions.

Planting and Growing Zones

Ideal for USDA zones 3-9, plant these in early spring once the frost has passed.

2. Yukon Gold: The Golden Standard

Description and Best Use

With its fine-grained, buttery yellow flesh, Yukon Gold is great for boiling, baking, and making creamy mashed potatoes.

Origin & Trivia

Developed in Canada in the 1960s, these potatoes are named for their golden color and the Yukon River.

Yukon Gold Potato Growing Tips

These prefer slightly acidic, well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently moist with regular watering.

Harvesting and Storage

They are ready for harvest in about 90-100 days and have a moderate storage life.

Planting and Growing Zones

Thrives in zones 1-9, plant in early spring for a full growing season.

3. Russian Banana Fingerling: Perfect for Gourmet Dishes

Description and Best Use

Known for its waxy, yellow flesh, this banana-shaped potato is excellent for boiling and roasting.

Origin & Trivia

This variety comes from the Baltic region of Northeast Europe and is named for its elongated shape.

Banana Russian Fingerling Growing Tips

It thrives in sandy loam soils and requires consistent moisture without overwatering.

Harvesting and Storage

Ready to harvest in about 90 days, it stores well under proper conditions.

Planting and Growing Zones

Plant these after the last frost in zones 3-8.

4. Magic Molly: Visually Stunning

Description and Best Use

Magic Molly potatoes retain their deep purple color when cooked, making them ideal for vibrant dishes.

Origin & Trivia

Originated in Alaska and named after the breeder’s daughter, Molly.

Magic Molly Potato Growing Tips

Requires fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

Harvesting and Storage

Takes about 100 days to mature, with fair storage durability.

Planting and Growing Zones

Plant in spring when the soil temperature reaches at least 45°F, suitable for zones 3-9.

5. German Butterball: A Flavorful Heirloom

Description and Best Use

This potato has rich, golden, buttery flesh, making it superb for roasting and mashing.

Origin & Trivia

An old-world variety likely from Germany, prized for its flavor.

Growing Tips

Plant in deep, loose soil and hill as plants grow to ensure healthy tubers.

Harvesting and Storage

Matures in 90-120 days, known for its excellent storage life.

Planting and Growing Zones

Ideal for early spring planting in zones 3-9.

6. Red Pontiac: The Versatile Choice

Description and Best Use

Red Pontiacs have red skin and waxy white flesh, perfect for boiling and baking.

Origin & Trivia

Developed in Florida in the 1940s and named after the Pontiac tribe.

Growing Tips

Best grown in full sun and well-drained soil with moderate watering.

Harvesting and Storage

Ready in about 80-90 days, suitable for medium-term storage.

Planting and Growing Zones

Plant in spring to maximize growth, suitable for zones 3-10.

7. Purple Peruvian: The Nutty Heirloom

Description and Best Use

With deep purple skin and flesh, it adds a unique twist to traditional dishes.

Origin & Trivia

Direct descendant of Andean potatoes cultivated by the Incas.

Growing Tips

Prefers cooler climates and well-drained, fertile soil.

Harvesting and Storage

Usually matures in 70-90 days, best used soon after harvest.

Planting and Growing Zones

Best in zones 3-8, plant after frost risk has passed.

8. Elba: The Disease-Resistant Stalwart

Description and Best Use

Known for its disease resistance and excellent storage qualities, great for boiling and mashing.

Origin & Trivia

Named after Elba, New York, where it was developed.

Growing Tips

Requires rich, well-drained soil and frequent watering during dry spells.

Harvesting and Storage

Matures in about 80-100 days, one of the best for long-term storage.

Planting and Growing Zones

Plant early in spring as soon as the soil is workable, suitable for zones 3-9.

9. Lehigh: The High-Yield Variety

Description and Best Use

Offers high yields and storability, with light yellow flesh suitable for mashing and general cooking.

Origin & Trivia

Developed at Penn State University, named after Lehigh County in Pennsylvania.

Growing Tips

Requires full sun and moist, well-drained soil.

Harvesting and Storage

Ready in about 90 days, maintains quality for several months.

Planting and Growing Zones

Plant in early spring, zones 3-9.

10. Burbank Russet: The Fast Food Favorite

Description and Best Use

A classic choice for fluffy mashed potatoes and French fries due to its fluffy texture.

Origin & Trivia

Developed by Luther Burbank in the early 20th century, it’s a staple in the fast-food industry.

Growing Tips

Needs loose, well-aerated soil and regular feeding to prevent waterlogging.

Harvesting and Storage

About 90-100 days to harvest with excellent long-term storage capabilities.

Planting and Growing Zones

Best planted in early spring, thrives in zones 4-9.