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Potatoes 'Keizerinnen' / 'Kaiserinnen' / 'Meikoningin'

Potatoes 'Keizerinnen' / 'Kaiserinnen' / 'Meikoningin'

Potatoes 'Keizerinnen' / 'Kaiserinnen' / 'Meikoningin'

Product number: 405235.1
Origin: Western Europe
Latin: Solanum tuberosum

(before 1854) A very old variety from the Westland region (South Holland), which probably originated in Germany. The harvest is quite early and yields irregular tubers resembling Friese Geeltjes (Frisian Yellows) and Opperdoezer Ronde. Genetic research should determine whether these varieties share common ancestors. The taste is exceptionally good, which is why such an "oldie" has survived the test of time! They are slightly floury with a strikingly full flavour.

EARLY VARIETY FOR CONNOISSEURS.
An early variety primarily means that it grows quickly and can therefore be harvested early. The planting time is actually the same as for later varieties (April). However, to achieve an extra early harvest, these varieties are often planted earlier (mid-March with protection from foil or even from January under glass). Early varieties are less susceptible to the dreaded potato blight (Phytophthora infestans). Although the epidemic occurs earlier and earlier: plant sparsely and fertilize with potassium. Do not plant them in too wet a spot, but ensure they are well in the sun. The average planting distance is 70x40 cm, we recommend maintaining 80x40 cm to prevent diseases.

Names:
Latin: Solanum tuberosum
Dutch: Aardappel
Also known as: Keizerinnen, Kaiserinnen, Meikoningin
English: Potato

Planting time:

March
April

Soil type:

All soil types

Location:

Flower colour: White flowers, sometimes with a light purple hue
Average growth height: 60 to 90 cm
Bulb / tuber size: Varies
Attractive to insects: N/A
Annual or perennial: Perennial
Winter hardy: Moderately frost hardy
Origin: Western Europe
Ease of cultivation: Moderate

Latin: Solanum tuberosum
Dutch: Potato
Also known as: Empresses, Empresses, May Queen
English: Potato

"These potatoes aren't as good as they used to be..." Do you recognise that sigh? Perhaps you lived (and tasted!) more intensely in the past, but when it comes to those old forgotten varieties, we have good news for you: they're back, those spuds of yesteryear! Old varieties from before 1950 with unique flavours, special colours, unknown shapes. How wonderful it would be if all these historical varieties were available on a special shelf at the greengrocer's... but for now, you'll have to grow them yourself (or have them grown) for this "new" culinary journey of discovery. Just a culinary tip: because of their special colour or shape, don't peel them, but clean them thoroughly and cook them whole; often the colour is retained after cooking, and presentation matters, doesn't it...? In the English tradition, harvested potatoes are neatly cleaned and displayed in baskets. You could further enhance this harvest presentation with unique cucumbers, multi-coloured Swiss chard, pumpkins, red kale, blue corn: "rummage" through our seed guides for all those special (old but now trendy) vegetables. Potatoes that you have displayed for a while will gradually turn green and will then no longer be edible. For the grower, it's important to know that these old varieties are more susceptible to disease: plant them with ample space and keep a close eye on them. A fun tip: just plant at least 5 varieties; they are packaged in small portions (1 kg), and put a clear sign next to each separate type. Cook and evaluate them separately, make it a "Van Gogh Potato Eaters Feast"... Do you know a "forgotten" variety: let us know. All that remains is to wish you a very good harvest and (for later): bon appétit!