We highly recommend you grow your potatoes in mulch, aka the "Ruth Stout method". It is very simple, fast and productive. Just follow these 3 simple steps:
1. Spread 1-2 inches of compost on the surface of your garden bed.
2. Place your seed potatoes ON (not in) the compost, about 1 foot apart. Water them in if your compost or the weather forecast are looking dry.
3. Cover with a thick (10 to 15 inches) layer of mulch (hay, straw, or shredded leaves).
That's it! When it comes time to harvest, all you need is gloves and a bucket. Pull aside the mulch and pick potatoes! No damaged potatoes, no back-breaking work. It's that simple! We wouldn't grow potatoes any other way.