Potato Champion: Complete Growing & Cooking Guide

Potato Champion refers to 'Champion,' a heritage maincrop potato variety first developed in 1860 that remains popular for its reliable yield, excellent flavor, and versatility in cooking. This early maincrop variety features smooth, pale yellow skin and creamy flesh that's perfect for boiling, mashing, and roasting.

For gardeners and culinary enthusiasts seeking dependable performance from their potato crops, Champion delivers consistent results season after season. This comprehensive guide explores why this century-old variety continues to earn its place in modern gardens and kitchens, providing actionable insights you can apply immediately to maximize your harvest and culinary creations.

Why Champion Potato Stands the Test of Time

Developed by horticulturist John Brown in Scotland during 1860, Champion potato quickly gained popularity across the British Isles for its exceptional reliability. Unlike many heritage varieties that have disappeared, Champion has maintained its position as a gardener's favorite due to its balanced characteristics that address multiple growing challenges.

Characteristic	Champion Potato	Comparison to Modern Varieties
Maturity Period	Early maincrop (90-100 days)	Faster than Maris Piper (105-120 days)
Disease Resistance	Moderate to late blight	Less resistant than Sarpo varieties
Yield Potential	High (3-4 lbs per plant)	Comparable to Desiree
Storage Capability	Moderate (3-4 months)	Shorter than Russet Burbank (6+ months)

Champion Potato Growing Requirements

Successful cultivation of Champion potatoes begins with understanding their specific environmental needs. Unlike many modern varieties bred for commercial farming, Champion performs exceptionally well in home garden conditions with moderate inputs.

Soil and Planting Conditions

Champion thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.0-6.5) with ample organic matter. The Royal Horticultural Society recommends planting seed potatoes 12-15cm deep with 30cm between plants and 75cm between rows. For optimal results, plant when soil temperature reaches 7°C (45°F) in spring.

Watering and Maintenance Schedule

Consistent moisture is critical during tuber formation (approximately 4-6 weeks after planting). The University of Maine Cooperative Extension advises providing 1-2 inches of water weekly, increasing during dry spells. Hilling soil around stems when plants reach 20cm height protects developing tubers from sunlight exposure that causes greening.

Culinary Applications and Flavor Profile

Champion's medium starch content creates the perfect balance between waxy and floury potatoes, making it exceptionally versatile in the kitchen. Its creamy yellow flesh develops a naturally sweet flavor when cooked, with subtle earthy notes that enhance rather than overpower accompanying ingredients.

Best Cooking Methods for Champion Potatoes

• Boiling: Holds shape well for potato salads (15-20 minutes)
• Mashing: Produces smooth, creamy texture without gumminess
• Roasting: Develops crisp exterior while maintaining fluffy interior
• Steaming: Preserves nutrients better than boiling

Common Challenges and Solutions

While Champion demonstrates good resistance to common potato diseases, gardeners should monitor for these potential issues:

Potato Blight Management

Though Champion has moderate resistance to late blight, the James Hutton Institute recommends preventive measures including proper crop rotation (avoid planting in same location for 3-4 years), adequate spacing for air circulation, and removing infected foliage immediately. Organic growers often use copper-based fungicides as a preventive measure.

Pest Control Strategies

Colorado potato beetles pose the greatest threat to Champion crops. The USDA Agricultural Research Service suggests companion planting with marigolds or using floating row covers during vulnerable growth stages. For established infestations, hand-picking adult beetles and larvae remains the most effective organic control method.

Practical Tips from Experienced Growers

Seasoned gardeners who've cultivated Champion for multiple seasons recommend these evidence-based techniques:

• Store seed potatoes at 4°C (39°F) until planting to prevent premature sprouting
• Cure harvested potatoes in a dark, well-ventilated area at 10°C (50°F) for 10-14 days
• Use a balanced fertilizer with higher potassium content during tuber formation
• Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen which promotes foliage growth at expense of tubers

Why Champion Remains Relevant Today

In an era of rapidly developing potato varieties, Champion's enduring popularity stems from its balanced characteristics that address multiple gardening challenges simultaneously. Unlike specialized modern varieties bred for single traits, Champion offers a reliable 'all-rounder' performance that makes it particularly valuable for home gardeners with limited space.

The historical significance of Champion extends beyond its practical attributes. As one of the first varieties developed during the Victorian era of plant breeding, it represents an important milestone in agricultural history. Its continued cultivation helps preserve genetic diversity within potato crops, which remains crucial for future breeding programs addressing climate change challenges.

When is the best time to plant Champion potatoes?

Plant Champion seed potatoes 2-3 weeks before your last expected frost date when soil temperature reaches at least 7°C (45°F). In most temperate climates, this falls between late March and mid-April. Ensure soil is workable and not waterlogged before planting.

How long do Champion potatoes take to mature?

Champion is an early maincrop variety that matures in 90-100 days from planting. You can begin harvesting 'new' potatoes approximately 70 days after planting, but for full-sized storage potatoes, wait until the foliage begins to yellow and die back naturally.

Are Champion potatoes suitable for baking?

While Champion works well for boiling, mashing, and roasting, its medium starch content makes it less ideal for baking compared to high-starch varieties like Russet. For baking, choose varieties with higher starch content that produce a fluffy interior. Champion performs best when roasted or used in casseroles where its creamy texture shines.

How should I store harvested Champion potatoes?

Store cured Champion potatoes in a cool, dark place at 4-7°C (39-45°F) with 85-90% humidity. Use ventilated containers like cardboard boxes or mesh bags, and check regularly for spoiled tubers. Properly stored Champion potatoes will last 3-4 months, though they're best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.