Potatoes produce tubers above the point where the seed potato was planted. Without proper hilling, some of the tubers produced later in the season will grow above the surface of the soil. After exposure to sunlight, these tubers will turn green and start to produce solanine.
What happens to potatoes in sunlight?
Potatoes turn green when they're exposed to sunlight. As the plant prepares for photosynthesis and sprouting (by producing green chlorophyll), it develops a bitter, poisonous chemical (solanine) to discourage hungry animals from eating it.
Why do my potatoes turn green so fast?
Potatoes will turn green when growing too close to the soil surface, as well as when stored under even low light conditions — thus, the recommendations to mound potato plants in the garden and store harvested potatoes in complete darkness. The next time you see a green potato, be thankful for that color change.
Why should potatoes never be exposed to bright lights and sunlight?
The tubers, need protection from sunlight as any light will cause them to turn green and produce solanine, which is a toxin.
How does photosynthesis work for potatoes?
That's right, potatoes are actually stems, not roots. Tubers serve as food storage for the plant, and contain buds. Because they are actually underground stems, they have the ability to perform photosynthesis, the process through which plants use sunlight to make food.
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