Alabama

Potato farming in Alabama is limited in scale but remains a part of the state's diverse agricultural practices. Planting typically occurs between early February and early March to avoid cold damage and ensure harvest before the peak summer heat. Research by Auburn University has focused on improving soil fertility and optimizing yields, particularly in central and northern regions of the state. While table potatoes are grown modestly, sweet potatoes hold greater importance in Alabama, supported by a state-run certification program that regulates the production of seed, plant, and table stock.

Potato cultivation in Alabama dates back to the early 20th century, playing a significant role in the state’s agricultural history. In the 1930s and 1940s, farmers in Baldwin and Escambia counties became prominent producers of Irish potatoes, benefiting from the region’s fertile soils and favorable climate.

During World War II, Alabama’s extension agents actively promoted increased potato production to support the national war effort, leading to a surge in cultivation across the state. This period marked a crucial time when Irish potatoes became a staple crop, contributing both to local food supply and to wartime agricultural initiatives.