6 The Path of Potatoes

THE PATH OF POTATOES by Harriet Brundle

HOP IN THE POTATO PATCH Hi! My name is Anna, and this is my food truck, the Potato Patch! Which potato treat would you like to try? MENU Baked potato with cheese French fries Hash browns Oh no! I've run out of potatoes! I need to go get some more. Hop in the Potato Patch and come with me! The Potato Patch

THE PATH OF POTATOES Potatoes are grown around the world. In the United States, potatoes are grown more than any other vegetable. The Potato Patch Potato sprouts come from growing points called eyes. Seed potato Sprout growing from eye Potatoes grow in the ground. First, a seed potato is planted. A seed potato is a potato that often has sprouts on it.

IN THE FIELD Before seed potatoes are planted, a farmer must prepare the field. They drive a tractor to make ridges in the soil. Tractor Ridges The Potato Patch When the soil is ready, the seed potatoes are planted. They are placed between the ridges and then covered with soil. Seed potatoes are usually planted in early spring.

FROM THE ROOTS Over time, the potato plants grow roots, stems, and leaves. Leaves Roots Stem The Potato Patch Root New potatoes begin to grow from the roots. Potato plants grow flowers, too. Potatoes are tubers. Tubers are parts of plants that grow underground and store nutrients. Flowers Potato

READY FOR HARVEST The potatoes can be harvested when their leaves and flowers have died. The Potato Patch Each potato plant grows about 10 potatoes. A tractor drives up and down the field. It digs in the soil and scoops up the potatoes.