Francis Seed Potatoes – An Early Chipping Variety
Francis is one of the earliest varieties available, lifting large, long to long-oval tubers well ahead of most of the season. The skin is smooth and yellow, the flesh creamy yellow, and the dry matter content is high for a first early. That last point is what sets it apart: where most early potatoes are too wet to fry, Francis makes a genuine chip in June, and it bakes and roasts well besides. Yields are good and the tubers size up quickly.
Key Features:
- Exceptionally Early: Among the earliest first earlies, ready in around 10 weeks from planting.
- High Dry Matter: Unusually dry for an early variety, which is why it chips and roasts rather than collapsing.
- Large, Long-Oval Tubers: Smooth yellow skin with creamy yellow flesh and shallow eyes.
- Reliable Yield: Sizes up quickly and crops heavily for its maturity group.
Planting and Growing:
- Planting Time: Plant between March and April once the soil has begun to warm.
- Sowing Depth: Plant 15cm deep, with 30cm between tubers and 60cm between rows.
- Growing Tips: Chit before planting to bring the crop forward further. Earth up as the haulm grows to keep the tubers covered.
Harvesting:
- Harvest Time: Lift from June through August, around 10 weeks after planting.
Culinary Uses:
- Chips: The dry, floury flesh fries well, which few early varieties manage.
- Roasting: Crisps on the outside while staying fluffy within.
- Boiling: Holds together well when lifted young.
Why Choose Francis Seed Potatoes?
Francis is the answer for anyone who wants chips and roasties early rather than waiting for a maincrop. It combines the speed of a first early with the dry, floury flesh usually found much later in the season, and it does it reliably.
