Why Are My Potatoes Sprouting?

Warm storage speeds sprouting. Cooler dark conditions slow it — and sprouts should be removed before cooking.

Sprouting means the tuber’s dormancy ended. Warmth accelerates it; cool, dark, humid storage slows it.

Common causes

Storage above the ideal cool range
Long storage time (dormancy naturally ends)
Ethylene from nearby ripening fruit
Light and warmth on a kitchen counter

Clemson notes sprouting becomes a problem at higher storage temperatures.

Are sprouted potatoes usable?

Home guidance generally allows using potatoes with small sprouts if you:

Remove sprouts completely
Cut away soft or wrinkled tissue
Avoid tubers that are shriveled, heavily sprouted, and soft

UMN notes sprouts can be toxic and should not be eaten. When quality is poor, compost them instead of cooking.

How to slow sprouting

Follow proper storage after curing. Keep temperatures cool and conditions dark.

If you want sprouts on purpose for planting, that is chitting seed potatoes — use certified seed, not random storage leftovers when disease risk matters.