The science (and care) behind soil that grows particularly good potatoes.
At Particularly Good Potatoes, everything starts with the soil. Long before any planting begins, we invest time and care into preparing the land to ensure it provides the best possible foundation for our crops.
Healthy soil isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s the backbone of our farming system. It influences everything from crop yield to eating quality, water retention to biodiversity. And although headlines like “Only 60 harvests left” have stirred public concern in recent years, studies like the one reported by Farmers Weekly (February 2021) remind us to stay focused on the facts, not fear.
While soil degradation is a very real issue in many parts of the world, the claim of “60 harvests left” has been widely debunked. What remains true, however, is that good soil doesn’t look after itself – it requires conscious, long-term care.
From improving structure to increasing fertility, soil health plays a vital role in determining both the yield and eating quality of our potatoes. Ahead of planting, we carry out a series of targeted operations including cover cropping, grazing rotations, cultivation, and soil sampling. These practices are not just about preparing a fine seedbed – they’re about long-term sustainability, soil biology, and preserving the environment around us.
“Good soil management is at the heart of what we do,” says Alastair Robson of Turvelaws:
“In the off-season, we grow cover crops to protect the soil from erosion and increase organic matter. This winter, we also grazed sheep on the fields, which helps to naturally recycle nutrients. By cultivating the soil steadily in spring – starting with the right depth and conditions – we improve the soil structure and reduce compaction. It all adds up to healthier crops, improved resilience, and better potatoes.”
Healthy soils are also better at retaining moisture and nutrients, meaning fewer inputs are needed throughout the season – a win for both productivity and the planet.
As we mark the first steps of planting season, our focus remains firmly on the ground beneath our feet, because great potatoes don’t just come from a good variety – they come from great land, carefully looked after.
What you choose to buy can shape the soil beneath us:
When you choose to buy local, seasonal produce, you’re doing more than supporting a British farm. You’re actively helping to reduce environmental impact, protect natural ecosystems, and support soil-first farming that sustains the land for future generations.
Imports may look convenient, but they often shift the environmental cost elsewhere – onto land and communities we never see. Local choices. Global difference.