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Description
Solanum Tuberosum Sarpo Mira, commonly known as potato plant, is a perennial plant that belongs to the nightshade family Solanaceae. It is a high yielding variety that is popular among farmers due to its resistance to blight and other diseases. The plant produces edible tubers that are rich in starch and are consumed worldwide. The Sarpo Mira variety is a late maturing cultivar that is suitable for growing in cooler climates.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
Appearance
The Sarpo Mira variety of the potato plant has a bushy appearance and can grow up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are dark green in color and have a pointed shape. The plant produces white, pink or purple flowers that are star-shaped and have a diameter of 1 inch. The flowers are followed by the production of small green fruits that contain several seeds. The edible tubers produced by the plant are oval in shape and have a yellowish-brown skin with white flesh inside.
Care Guide
The Sarpo Mira potato plant requires regular care to grow healthy and produce high yields. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. However, be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer before planting and again when the plants are about 6 inches tall.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to grow and produce healthy tubers.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sarpo Mira potato plant is resistant to many of the common pests and diseases that affect other varieties of potato plants. However, it can still be affected by some diseases such as blackleg and scab. Pests such as aphids, potato beetles, and wireworms can also attack the plant. Regular monitoring and treatment with appropriate pesticides can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The Sarpo Mira potato plant is native to South America but is now widely grown in many parts of the world. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of soil types and weather conditions. The plant prefers cooler climates and is often grown in regions with mild summers and cold winters.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to plant the Sarpo Mira potato plant?
A: The plant is typically planted in early spring, after the last frost.
Q: How long does it take for the plant to produce tubers?
A: The plant typically produces tubers within 90-120 days after planting.
Q: Can the Sarpo Mira potato plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers provided they are large enough to accommodate the tubers and have good drainage.
Q: How do I know when to harvest the tubers?
A: The tubers are ready for harvest when the leaves of the plant turn yellow and start to die back.
Related Plants
- Solanum Tuberosum ‘Desiree’
- Solanum Tuberosum ‘Maris Piper’
- Solanum Tuberosum ‘King Edward’
References
- “Solanum Tuberosum L.” Plants of the World Online.
- “Sarpo Mira.” Potato Association of America.
- “Growing Potatoes.” University of Illinois Extension.
