How to Grow Potatoes in Tomato Cages

Prepare a space in your yard or garden approximately four to six weeks before the last frost. Loosen the soil in a 24-to-26-inch-diameter circle using a garden fork. Mix in compost into the prepared circle as you loosen the soil to a depth of 8 inches.

Cut the seed potatoes into approximately 1 1/2-inch squares with a paring knife. This process is called "chitting." Make sure that each piece has at least one eye on it. Place the chitted potatoes in a dry place for one to three days, to allow the cut edges to heal.

Place four evenly spaced seed potato pieces with the eye facing up in the prepared circle. The seed potato pieces should be spaced approximately 18 to 20 inches apart. Cover the potatoes with approximately 3 inches of soil and firm it down with your hands.

Water the planted area using a watering can to moisten the soil. Cover the planted area with straw. Center the tomato cage over the planted circle and press it into the ground.

Allow the potato plant to grow. Cover the bottom portion of the stem as it grows with straw. Allow the plant to grow 3 to 4 inches and cover over the stem again as it grows. Continue with this process throughout the growing season. Keep the plants well watered, especially during the blooming stage of the growing season.