When to Plant Potatoes in Deaf Smith County, TX
Potatoes are a versatile staple crop that produces tubers underground. They come in hundreds of varieties with varying colors, textures, and maturity dates.
Deaf Smith County, Texas is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 16 and the first fall frost is October 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 191 days.
At an elevation of 4,473 feet, Deaf Smith County receives approximately 49 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Potatoes may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Potatoes will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients.
Deaf Smith County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.7-8.4
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Potatoes Planting Timeline — Deaf Smith County, TX
Potatoes Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 26 | Feb 26 – Mar 12 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 30 | Apr 30 – May 14 |
| Direct Sow | April 23 | Apr 23 – May 14 |
| Harvest | July 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
70–120 days
Soil pH
5 – 6.5
USDA Zone
Zone 7a
Growing Season
191 days
Growing Tips for Deaf Smith County
Plant seed potatoes (not grocery store potatoes) 4 inches deep in spring. Hill soil around stems as plants grow to prevent greening. Stop watering when plants die back.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Potatoes in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Potatoes in Deaf Smith County, TX?
Deaf Smith County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 16. Plan your Potatoes planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Deaf Smith County, TX?
Deaf Smith County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 16 and first fall frost is October 24.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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