Mr. Rawles:
The problem with potatoes as a survival crop, is that they are susceptible to soil-borne diseases. Before toxic sprays, seed potatoes were grown at elevations above 800 feet, which does help. They also require a very good root cellar, in order to keep all the way through the winter, until the next planting season. Seed potatoes cannot be stored for years like grains. One [year of] crop failure, and you are done. It helps to swap all your potatoes saved for seed with another gardener, some distance from you. Look for someone with a different type of soil, and you may be able to get by for a number of years. Relying on potatoes as a long term survival crop is risky. Just look at Irish history. – FARMERIK
Letter Re: Potatoes as a Survival Garden Crop
