How to Determine if a Potato Is Ripe

After potatoes are planted, they are ready for harvest within about 120 days, depending on the potato variety. The ripeness of a potato is determined by inspecting the portion of its vine that rests above ground. After a potato is harvested, it may show signs of immaturity or over-ripeness, which makes the produce unpleasant and sometimes dangerous to consume. A ripe potato is high in fiber, vitamin C and potassium, and it is a healthful addition to almost any meal.

Spade fork

Instructions

- 1
  Inspect the potato plant's vine after it flowers. Harvest the potato from the ground when the vine dies and turns brown. Remove the potato from the ground with a spade fork.
- 2
  Remove an Irish potato from the ground when it reaches about 2 to 3 inches in diameter, and remove a new potato when it reaches 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- 3
  Inspect the potato for "eyes." Potato eyes grow as new sprouts. The sprouts indicate that the potato may have sat around for a while and its quality has diminished.
- 4
  Look for green spots on the potato. When a potato is exposed to the sun, the potato forms green spots that cause the potato to taste bitter. These spots are toxic when consumed in large amounts.
- 5
  Examine the potato for bruises, discolorations and cuts. Avoid using a damaged potato. Select only a potato that has a smooth surface.

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